Social Competence among Cocaine Abusers: Moderating Effects of Comorbid Diagnoses and Gender

Levels of social competence and maladaptive behaviors were examined among 184 male and 85 female treatment-seeking cocaine abusers. Social competence was assessed based on indices of functioning at work and in relationships, maladaptive behaviors included severity of drug and legal problems, and difficulties in interpersonal relationships. Consistent with developmental interpretations, results indicated that addicts with comorbid depression had higher social competence than those with comorbid antisocial personality disorders. In contrast with research on other psychiatric groups, female addicts had lower social competence than males; however, they also had lower levels of maladaptive behaviors. Findings are discussed in terms of implications for preventive interventions and treatment for drug abusers.