Masculine Gender Role Stress and Substance Abuse Among Substance Dependent Males

Abstract

Masculine gender role stress (MGRS) occurs in men who are highly committed to the male role. We hypothesized that among substance dependent men, high MGRS men would show more severe alcohol and drug abuse than low MGRS men. Additionally, we explored the types of substance abuse triggers to which high MGRS men are most vulnerable and their confidence in coping with these triggers. Our results indicate that high MGRS males had more severe alcohol dependence and, among drug dependent individuals, more severe drug dependence than did low MGRS men. Additionally, high MGRS men were found to be more likely to abuse substances in response to negative emotions, physical discomfort, conflict, and the belief that they can control their substance use.