Alcohol Problems and Marginalization: Social Group Work with Lesbians

ABSTRACT

Social group work presents an ideal format for meeting the challenge of lesbian alcohol problems. By focusing on the individual, her sociopolitical context, and the effects of marginalization on lesbians, groups can provide a supportive environment for exploring a complex problem and deciding how best to respond. This paper describes a study of an innovative intervention group. Participants chose their own goals, and identified personal and environmental factors which contributed to their alcohol problems. Results suggest that participants benefited from discussing their concerns within a feminist context. Although not everyone set out to limit their use, overall consumption of alcohol decreased. There was also a decrease in frequency of drunkenness.