Sexual Identity and Gender Differences in Substance Use and Violence: An Exploratory Study

ABSTRACT

In this study, we examine rates of alcohol and illicit drug use, related problems, and experiences of interpersonal violence among 71 heterosexual men and women, gay and bisexual men, and lesbian and bisexual women. Rates of substance use and violence were high among the participants, with notable gender and sexual identity differences, particularly in rates of illicit drug use and drug-related problems. Based on our findings concerning substance use and interpersonal victimization, we propose a number of areas of future research and implications important for counselors working with LGB clients.

KEYWORDS:

• Sexual identity
• LGBs
• substance use
• childhood sexual abuse
• adult sexual assault
• intimate partner violence

Funding for this project, in part, came from RIA's Research Development Program and NIAAA (2-T32-AA007583-06).

Notes

^a1 = Men, 2 = women.

^b1 = Heterosexual persons. 2 = LGBs.

^cUsual number of drinks consumed on an average occasion in the past 6 months.

^dDrinking problems, drug problems, CSA, ASA, and IPV variables are continuous (i.e., total number of items endorsed).

^eAmong those who reported using an illicit drug.

∗p < .05,

∗∗p < .01.

∗ p < .01.

∗∗ p < .05.

†Marginal at .10 > p > .05.