Sex-role perceptions in chemically dependent subjects: adults versus adolescents

Contrary to expectations, a study of 81 adolescent drug and/or alcohol addicts produced results quite similar to those found among an adult addicted population (Griffin-Shelley, 1986). On the Bem Sex-Role Inventory (Bem, 1974), these young people rated themselves, in descending order, Undifferentiated (43.2%), Masculine (23.5%), Androgynous (18.5%), and Feminine (14.8%). Despite their exaggerated "macho" and "seductive" attitudes and behaviors, which resemble their adult counterparts, chemically dependent adolescents suffer similarly from low self-esteem and poor adjustment. Addictions appear to have already damaged these young people in areas of self-worth and sex-role perception.