Body Image and Sex-Role Stereotype as Features of Addiction in Women

Abstract

Research with women addicted to alcohol or to opiates shows low body esteem and a negative view of the female role to be characteristics of this group. The present study examines the relation between body and role attitudes. When measures of each were compared with a control group of nonaddicted women, the addicted group was shown to hold significantly more negative attitudes, although socioeconomic status proved to be a confounding factor. The hypothesis that drug-taking behavior may be more likely when a woman perceives both her body and her sex role negatively was supported. Because a difference was found between the groups in the use of fantasy, it was speculated that treatment measures for addicted women might be more effective if this difference were considered.

Sexual Objectification and Substance Abuse in Young Adult Women

“…These feelings of shame among addicted women indicate a possible connection between the shame that occurs through SO experiences and the shame that may exist with SA. Supporting this notion, Weathers and Billingsley (1982) found that drugtaking behavior occurs more frequently when a woman perceives her body and her sex role in a negative light.…”

Physical self-perception and Personality Traits among Women with Psychoactive Substance Abuse Compared to Normal Individuals

“…It is indicated that continuous body dissatisfaction can cause depression, obsession, tendency to substance abuse and suicide [6][7][8] . Also, studies suggested that women who are dependent to substance abuse or alcohol drinking show low body esteem 9 .…”