Substance use in women and gender-based violence: From a feminist and intersectionality perspective
Abstract
Substance use and gender-based violence are intersected. Substance abuse can serve as a coping mechanism for gender violence but in the same vein makes them more vulnerable to violence. In the present study, we will discuss gender-based violence and substance use disorder (SUD) based on a conceptualization of the sociopolitical feminist ideology and the theory of power and gender by Connell. With this goal in mind, we conducted a narrative literature review regarding gender violence and substance use. Our primary objective was to describe the relationship between substance use in women and gender violence, considering an intersectionality analysis. One of the most documented reasons for substance use in women is gender-based violence. Additionally, women with SUD reported greater psychological distress, as well as having mental health problems and having experienced a traumatic event including sexual and physical assault as compared with men. Discrimination and abuse are among women with SUD’s specific challenges when receiving treatment. We conclude that gender roles imposed on women mold experiences and behaviors when seeking treatment.
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Substance use in women, Drug use in women, Feminism, Intersectionality, Gender violence
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