Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 14, 2026

Integrating Computerized Linguistic and Social Network Analyses to Capture Addiction Recovery Capital in an Online Community
Published on: May 31, 2019
Substance use and social identity in the lesbian community
Molly Kerby1, Richard Wilson, Thomas Nicholson
1Western Kentucky University, Bowling Green, KY 42101, USA. molly.kerby@wku.edu
Abstract:
Although the study results report discrepancies in the rates of substance abuse in the lesbian community, the general consensus in the field of gay and lesbian studies is that these individuals, as a whole, have a higher rate of substance use. For this study, data were collected via the Internet on the use of drugs and alcohol, level of self-esteem, and degree of social identity in the lesbian community. A correlation analysis was used to determine if negative social identity within the lesbian community leads to low self-esteem that is reflected in higher rates of substance abuse. Though a positive relationship between social identity and self-esteem was determined, no significant correlation between negative social identity, low self-esteem, and substance use was determined. However, it is important to consider that respondents with higher levels of self-esteem reported more frequent use of specific drugs. That outcome in itself is an implication for further investigation.
Related Concept Videos
Social Identity
Ethnic Identity within a Larger Culture
Influence of Parents and Peers on Identity
Parental Influence on Identity Development
Parents serve as primary guides and managers in an adolescent's life, offering support instrumental in decision-making and personal growth. This guiding role...
Substance Use Disorders Affecting Sleep
Understanding the concepts of physical dependence,...
Marcia's Theory of Identity Status
Social Foundations of Self IV: Self in Digital Communication

