ANALYSING THE CORRELATION BETWEEN SHAME AND SUBSTANCE USE IN YOUNG ADULTS

Abstract

This study examines the connections between substance use and shame, focusing on how shame influences coping strategies among young adults aged 18–26 years. The objective is to understand the link between substance use, different manifestations of shame, and coping mechanisms. A statistical analysis reveals a significant positive association between (1) substance use and internalized shame, suggesting that higher levels of substance use are associated with increased tendencies to experience internalized shame (2) between shame-prone coping strategies and substance use, indicating an increased tendency to engage in maladaptive coping mechanisms among individuals experiencing shame. A significant negative correlation is also observed between substance use and adaptive coping strategies, such as seeking social support, highlighting decreased tendencies to adopt positive coping strategies among individuals with higher levels of substance use and a positive correlation is observed between the higher levels of shame and tendency to use substances. Negative associations are found between substance use and self-esteem and substance use and psychological well-being. Further implications of the study's findings are discussed.”