The Intersectionality of Criminality and Substance Use Self-Stigmas

Research has consistently demonstrated that a substantial number of individuals in the criminal justice system struggle with substance misuse. Furthermore, rates of relapse and recidivism among this population are high. One challenge facing this population is self-stigma, the process in which negative stereotypes and public perceptions about an aspect of one’s identity are internalized onto one’s sense of self. Self-stigma has been shown to have negative implications for both individuals in the criminal justice system and individuals with substance use concerns, including reduced self-efficacy, self-esteem, and treatment engagement. Thus far, however, few, if any studies have examined the intersecting effects of criminality self-stigma and substance use self-stigma. Accordingly, the purpose of this study was to examine how criminality self-stigma and substance use self-stigma individually and collectively predicted self-esteem, drug avoidance self-efficacy, and treatment engagement. A sample of 912 previously incarcerated adults with a history of substance misuse completed several online self-report measures. Findings suggested that substance use and criminality self-stigmas both individually and collectively predicted self-esteem and treatment engagement, and substance use self-stigma and the interaction effect predicted drug avoidance self-efficacy. Additional findings and implications for future treatment and prevention efforts are discussed.