Women's Friendships: A Basis for Individual-Level Resources and Their Connection to Power and Optimism

The study examined how friendships among women in recovery from substance use disorders are related to individual resources (e.g., social support, self-esteem, and hope) and empowerment (e.g., power and optimism). Findings from a path analysis of 244 women in recovery revealed that friendships among women were positively related to individual resources; that is, the stronger the relationships with other women, the higher women perceived their resources to be. Further, individual-level resources mediated the relations between friendships and empowerment, with higher levels of individual resources related to higher levels of empowerment constructs of power and optimism. Results point to the importance of developing and sustaining empowering relationships for women in recovery. Findings have implications for gender-specific treatment practices and recommendations impacting substance use recovery outcomes. Public Significance StatementThis study highlights the importance of developing and sustaining empowering relationships for women in recovery and identifying settings that help foster these supportive friendships. Findings can inform gender-specific treatment practices that are aimed at empowering women through their social connections to other women.