Examining the Association Between Gender Identity Non-Verification and Substance Use: Insights from General Strain Theory

• In Event: Poster Session 1

Abstract

The field of criminology has traditionally focused on biological sex differences in criminal offending and given little attention to gender differences in crime and how processes of gender may be associated with deviant behaviors. Gender is a complex and nuanced identity that has moved beyond the binary of man and woman. I draw on social psychological approaches to study gender identity by focusing on how one’s perception of their identities as well as other’s perceptions of one’s identities matter. Specifically, this dissertation examines gender identity non-verification, which refers to instances where an individual perceives that other’s perceptions of their gender expression do not match up with how they self-identify their gender. Bridging identity theory and general strain theory, this dissertation utilizes population-based data from the National Couples’ Health and Time Study (NCHAT) to examine gender identity non-verification as a source of strain for both cisgender and transgender individuals. Using Structural Equation Models (SEM), I examine associations between gender identity non-verification, negative emotions such as anger and depressive symptoms, and subsequent drug and alcohol use. The findings from this project will provide new insights into how to conceptualize and understand gender in studies of criminology.

Authors

• Megan L. Swinehart, Bowling Green State University

• Wendy D. Manning, Bowling Green State University