The Impact of Family Support and Social Stigma on the Social Isolation of Female Drug Users and the Mediating Role of Social Exclusion

When discussing drug use, it's been observed that social isolation often follows substance abuse and is closely linked with issues such as relapsing into addiction and struggling to quit drugs. Therefore, this study aimed to explore how family support and social labels affect the social isolation of female drug users, with the mediating factor of social exclusion.

The study used an explanatory survey method. The field of study was addiction treatment centers in Golestan province. A sample of one hundred and eighty-seven women undergoing treatment was selected using available sampling methods. The analysis technique was based on the AMOS26 structural equation model.

The research results indicated that social exclusion has a notably positive impact on social isolation. Furthermore, family support and social labels were found to significantly influence social exclusion. Finally, family support and social labels appeared to have a significant impact on the social isolation of addicted women, but only indirectly through social exclusion.

The findings of this study indicate that social exclusion, family support, and social stigma significantly contribute to the social isolation experienced by women who use drugs. As a result, addressing and influencing these factors can play a crucial role in reducing social isolation among female drug users and facilitating their recovery. In this process, a social worker can serve as a facilitator.