Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test

This study explored the relationship between heterosexist events, internalized homophobia, and substance use and abuse among lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) individuals. In addition, the study examined the counseling experiences of LGB individuals, and their perceptions of the role of counseling in reducing internalized homophobia. Sequential multiple regression was used to test a model predicting substance use and abuse with a sample of 824 LGB individuals. Results suggested that heterosexist events and internalized homophobia accounted for a small amount of variance of alcohol and drug use and abuse. Findings also indicated that LGB individuals are seeking counseling at high rates, and they strongly agreed with the literature that emphasizes the importance of addressing internalized homophobia in counseling. Limitations of this study and implications for training, practitioners, and research are discussed.