ABSTRACT
This conclusion presents some closing thoughts on concepts discussed in the preceding chapters of this book. A main theme of the book is that of power differentials between men and women, both at a personal level, in heterosexual relationships, and within the wider social sphere; and how these affect women's lives as drinkers and drug users, and as 'survivors' of substance misuse. The experiences of the women described in the book demonstrate the centrality of gender to an understanding of how alcohol and drug use affects their lives, and the opportunities to survive or escape their circumstances. Younger women are particularly likely to adopt the lifestyle of their drug using or heavy drinking peers, often becoming alienated from 'straight' people in the process. Negative encounters with health and related professionals are more frequently reported by younger women, in particular the illegal drug users.
