CONSENT TO ACT AS A PARTICIPANT IN A RESEARCH STUDY
TITLE: Exploring the Link Between Adversity and Substance Use in Sexual Minority Women
PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR:
Gabrielle Aluna Romeo, M.S.
Carlow University
garomeo@live.carlow.edu
SUPERVISOR/ADVISOR: Joseph M. Roberts, Ph.D. (jmroberts@carlow.edu)
Why is this research being done?
The purpose of this study is to examine how minority stress and adverse childhood experiences may contribute to emotional dysregulation, personality characteristics related to emotional vulnerability, and substance use behaviors among lesbian and bisexual women. Findings from this study may help improve understanding of substance use risk factors and inform more culturally responsive prevention and intervention efforts for sexual minority women.
Who is being asked to take part in this research study?
You are being invited to participate in this study if you are 18 years of age or older who identifies as a lesbian or bisexual woman. To take part, you must have been assigned female at birth, currently identify as female, have a history of alcohol or substance use, and be able to read and comprehend online survey items delivered in English.
Individuals younger than 18 years of age, those unable to provide informed consent, or those who do not meet the study eligibility criteria are not eligible for this study.
What procedures will be performed for research purposes?
If you decide to participate, you will complete an anonymous online survey that takes approximately 20–30 minutes. The survey will begin with a series of demographic and eligibility questions, such as your age, sexual orientation, education level, and other background information. After that, you will be asked to complete several questionnaires that focus on experiences commonly associated with mental health and substance use among sexual minority women. Questions will be presented in multiple-choice and rating-scale formats.
You will complete the survey in one sitting, and your responses will remain anonymous. Participation is entirely voluntary, and you may discontinue participation at any time.
What are the possible risks, side effects, and discomforts of this research study?
There are minimal risks associated with participation in this study. Some survey questions ask about discrimination, childhood adversity, traumatic experiences, emotional distress, and substance use. Reflecting on these experiences may cause temporary emotional discomfort, sadness, anxiety, or distress. If participation causes emotional discomfort, you may stop the survey at any time without penalty. You may also skip any question you do not wish to answer.
If you experience distress, the following resources are available:
National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Call or Text 988
https://988lifeline.org
SAMHSA National Helpline
1-800-662-HELP (4357)
https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline
The Trevor Project
https://www.thetrevorproject.org
What are the possible benefits from taking part in this research study?
You are unlikely to receive any direct personal benefit from participating in this study. However, your participation may contribute to a better understanding of the factors associated with substance use and mental health among lesbian and bisexual women. The knowledge gained from this research may help improve future prevention, assessment, and intervention efforts for sexual minority women.
Will I receive compensation?
Participants who wish to be considered for compensation will have the option of providing an email address through a separate link at the conclusion of the survey.
Every eighth participant who provides contact information will receive a $25 Amazon gift car. Selection for compensation will be based on the order in which eligible