Social roles in women's lives: changing conceptions of self.

As part of an effort to improve services and outcomes for women with histories of trauma and co-occurring mental health and substance abuse disorders, the Franklin County Women and Violence Project sought to assess women's perceptions about their social roles and provide them with opportunities to adopt valued social roles. Social role theory suggests that individuals with devalued roles may benefit through the acquisition of valued roles. This article outlines the findings regarding the women's initial assessments of their social roles as well as real and desired changes 3 months after the baseline interview. Findings suggest that valued social roles play a significant role in helping women heal and recover, contributing to greater self-esteem, confidence, and happiness. Conversely, the adoption of devalued roles or worsening of roles contributes to depression and makes it more difficult for women to heal and recover.