Substance use stigma reduces trust and informational support: experimental evidence across risk and relationship...

This study investigates the impact of addiction history on interpersonal trust and access to social support. Specifically, it explores whether people exhibit decreased trust toward individuals with addiction histories, explores the extent to which positive portrayals can mitigate such distrust, and evaluates whether those with addiction histories receive reduced social support from their closest social networks, including friends and family.

Two complementary studies were conducted. Study 1 employed hypothetical scenarios to assess trust in both property-related and personal risk situations and examined whether counter-stereotypical information could reduce distrust. Study 2 used vignettes depicting individuals seeking assistance in differing relational contexts (friends versus family) to evaluate responses and types of support provided. Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression was applied to estimate the effects of experimental manipulations on trust and social support.

Participants exhibited significantly reduced trust toward individuals with a history of substance abuse across both scenarios. Providing counter-stereotypical information significantly reduced distrust in the property risk scenario, but had no measurable effect on trust in personal risk contexts. Regarding social support, individuals with substance use histories received less informational support when assistance was requested by family members.

This research highlights the role of addiction stigma in shaping interpersonal dynamics, particularly in trust and social support. The findings suggest that targeted interventions addressing trust deficits, such as counter-stereotypical portrayals or trust-building programs, could play a role in reducing stigma and enhancing interpersonal relationships. Additionally, mentoring programs and improved access to informational resources may help bridge gaps in social support, especially where family support is limited. These insights have significant implications for rehabilitation programs, family support services, and community-based initiatives aimed at promoting successful recovery and reintegration.