Comparison of Self Esteem among Persons with and without Substance Abuse in Kashmir

Abstract

Background: Substance dependence is a big issue in our society and associated with domestic violence, which in turn aggravates the physical and emotional distress of the family. Those who have low self-esteem struggle to find success and happiness, mostly because they do not feel themselves worthy of enjoying such things. Their lack of self-worth will affect every area of their life, especially their relationships with other people. Many of those who are dealing with low self-esteem will turn to substance abuse because it offers a temporary solution to their problems. Aim: The aim of the study is to compare marital adjustment between the spouses of individuals with alcohol dependence syndrome and spouses of normal population. Methods: It was cross sectional study conducted at DDC SMHS Srinagar and outside the said institute. Atotal of 60 samples were taken and these 60 were divided further with 30 samples of persons with substance abuse and 30 samples of persons who do not abuse any substance, purposive sampling was used. The scales which were used are W.H.O G.H.Q. and Rosenberg's self-esteem Scale. Results: Finding indicates that persons who do not abuse any substance showed higher self-esteem as compared to persons who have abuse substance. Conclusions: Substance abuse and self-esteem mutually impact one another. Substance abuse use can temporarily raise or lower self-esteem, but it typically creates lower self-esteem in the long-term.