Contends that comprehensive discussion of women's alcoholism must include understanding of how male-as-norm bias has affected alcoholism research, assessment, and treatment. Summarizes how male-as-norm bias has affected research on women's alcoholism and shaped perceptions of women's alcoholic behavior and their responses to treatment. (Author/NB)

Alcoholism is a widespread but neglected problem in the lesbian community. The myths and realities of lesbian experience are described and suggested treatment strategies that address the special problems and needs of lesbian alcoholics are given. The literature is reviewed and the need to overcome homophobia among social workers and in agencies is…

Special issues faced by chemically dependent women are reviewed. Self-in-Relation Theory, a model of psychological development for women, is discussed; the approach of Women for Sobriety is presented. When these two approaches are related, an alternative way of understanding and supporting chemically dependent women in recovery is provided. (EMK)

The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism awarded contracts to assemble information about practices which identify, refer, and treat employed women alcoholics. In Phase I data were collected on the frequency of use of employee assistance programs by women alcoholics. Findings indicated no great differences between men and women.…

Examines mental health issues, especially alcoholism, suicide, and social depression, related to the counseling of Black women. Recommends improved mental health services, counselor/clinical training programs, and additional research focusing on the causes of stress among Black women. (Author/MW)

This paper examines the social context of female deviant behavior. It is held that the fact that women deviate less than men and in privatized and self-destructive forms is consistent with the ideology of the female nature and with women's social position. (MC)

Components of healing are spiritual, relational, and intergenerational. This narrative report reaches beyond an intellectual understanding for a "healing spirit" for American Indian women in recovery. Four intersecting circles of spiritual and cultural understanding speak to balance and wellness, the colonization experience and addiction…

While over 30 percent of the nation's 10 million alcoholics and problem drinkers are women, the severity of female alcoholism is statistically understated. The female inebriate is hidden by society and underserved by current treatment programs. Alcoholism in females has continued to be considered synonymous with male alcoholism. The purpose of…

Analysis of Al-Anon and Adult Children of Alcoholics (ACOA) organizational literature shows women's articulation of and responses to the problems of codependence from the 1950s to the 1980s. Progressive appropriation of feminist ideals, a critique of the family, and a disease-based model of family dysfunction characterize understanding of…

Little attention has been paid to college women's drinking. For women, drinking is often a way of making friends and establishing intimate relationships. Peer influence is a strong persuader. College women who are careless in using alcohol may encounter additional problems like increased stress, depression, and sexual dysfunction. (SM)

The expanding population of older women relative to older men or the "feminization of aging" is a significant demographic trend with important implications for the future. Older women are at risk for extended years of widowhood, living alone, institutionalization, poverty, and mental health problems. Although the dementias of late life appear to…

Judy Gobert (Blackfeet/Salish) struggled with racism and sexual abuse in childhood and with substance abuse and family violence in adulthood. Traditional spirituality, belief in education, and support groups have helped her to heal herself and create a better life for her children and herself. Describes her doctoral research on drug-resistant…