A mixed-methods study of self-change among severely substance-dependent Israelis: does gender make a difference?

A mixed-methods design was used to examine gender differences in self-change (SC), and integrate the quantitative findings with information extracted from qualitative narratives. The sample included 133 self-changers (52 women and 81 men), with a subsample of 25 respondents. The quantitative analysis showed no significant gender differences in personal characteristics, except in history of child abuse. Women reported a higher rate of emotional and sexual abuse than men. In comparison, the qualitative findings showed gender differences in constructing the SC process, which was based on gender stereotypes. Respondents simultaneously expressed two types of attitudes: egalitarian attitudes toward gender equality, and traditional attitudes toward gender roles and traits. In conclusion, the findings suggest that SC can occur among severely substance-dependent women and men. Both genders attributed their successful SC to the ability to regulate their emotions, and their explanations were rooted in gender stereotypes.