Substance abuse is an element of the definition of child abuse or neglect in some states. Circumstances that can be considered abuse or neglect include:

• Manufacture of a controlled substance in the presence of a child or on the premises occupied by a child
• Allowing a child to be present where the chemicals or equipment for the manufacture of controlled substances are used or stored
• Selling, distributing or giving drugs or alcohol to a child
• Use of a controlled substance by a caregiver that impairs the caregiver's ability to adequately care for the child
• Exposure of the child to drug paraphernalia, the criminal sale or distribution of drugs or drug dealing activity