Gender differences in attitudes toward alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs.

A number of differences exist between men and women in use patterns and risk factors for substance abuse. In recent years these differences have received increased attention; however, gender-related attitudes toward substance abuse need additional study. This study examines gender-related differences in beliefs about the causes of the abuse of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs; the power of various substances of abuse; the prevalence of substance use; and the effectiveness of various interventions. Women were more likely to attribute causality to biological or environmental factors, to perceive drugs as more powerful, to perceive a higher incidence of substance abuse, and to believe prevention and treatment were more effective. Therefore, prevention, assessment, and treatment programs should be designed differently for women than for men.