The effects of sobriety on the gender identity of female alcoholics

• Main Author: Starks, Nancy E.
• Format: Others
• Published: DigitalCommons@Robert W. Woodruff Library, Atlanta University Center 1995
• Subjects: Social Work
• Online Access: http://digitalcommons.auctr.edu/dissertations/1995; http://digitalcommons.auctr.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=3585&context=dissertations

This study examined the impact of sustained sobriety on the female alcoholic's gender behaviors and perceptions of self. It is based on the premise that sustained abstinence from alcohol will result in the acquisition of situation appropriate cognitive and behavioral processes that support recovery and strengthen coping skills. A comparison group posttest-only research design was employed to organize and analyze data from fifty-eight alcoholics in Atlanta, Georgia. The Bem Sex-Role Inventory was used to gather information and classify the sample's gender identities. The study's findings suggest that women entering recovery are unable to clearly identify with and pattern their actions to conform with personal and social expectations. As the time in recovery increases, the woman's sense of self, ability to think and act independently are enhanced.