Date

12-4-2025

Department

School of Behavioral Sciences

Degree

Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology (PhD)

Chair

Florin Coltea

Keywords

substance use, trauma, women, lived experiences, qualitative research

Disciplines

Psychology

Abstract

Substance use disorders (SUDs) do not discriminate who or how they impact individuals, families, or communities. Women impacted by SUDs face challenges such as lack of transportation, minimal family support, some of the women were triggered by co-ed groups, and childcare needs are just a few categories that prevent them from adhering to and engaging in treatment. This qualitative phenomenological study explored the lived experiences of eight women with substance use disorders and trauma. The participants were interviewed using a semi-structured guide that covered areas of their lives impacted by substance use disorders and trauma. Data was analyzed using methods such as themes, coding for content, and interpretation of the participants responses. The gap was the lack of women-centered groups to address the needs women face while under the influence of substances and later while working towards their recovery. Findings from the study showed that although the women had different lived experiences, were from various backgrounds and socioeconomic statues, they were resilient, they made conscious efforts to attend inpatient and outpatient treatment programs and have become recovery mentors to other women who were survivors of SUDs and trauma. The findings also highlighted awareness and the immediate need for gender-specific treatment.

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