An exploratory study of violence, substance abuse, disability, and gender

Using a random sample of 1,876 individuals with disabilities, in this study we examined the relationships between victimization as a result of violence, substance abuse, disability, and gender. Multivariate analyses revealed that women with disabilities are more likely to be victims of substance abuse-related violence than are male counterparts. Some disability conditions, such as disability onset, multiple disabilities, and chronic pain, are significantly associated with violence for both men and women with disabilities. For people with disabilities, it was found that victims of substance abuse-related violence are more likely to have their own substance abuse problems than are those who have not been victimized. The authors discuss several issues relevant to a better understanding of violence, substance abuse, disability, and gender.