The Social Stress Model of Substance Abuse among Childbearing-Age Women: A Review of the Literature

Abstract

The Social Stress Model of Substance Abuse has been derived from numerous psychosocial theories and models. This model suggests that the likelihood of an individual engaging in drug abuse is influenced by the stress level and the extent to which it is offset by stress modifiers such as social networks, social competence and resources. This article synthesizes current empirical evidence for this model. Thirteen primary research studies of women are synthesized and described, with special attention to the four key constructs inherent in the model: stress, social networks, social competencies, and resources. Consistencies and inconsistencies in the findings, a critique of key methodological issues, implications for future research, and implications for clinical policy and practice are provided.