Intersectionality, substance use disorders, and leisure: Implications for conducting research examining social identities

Objective: The purpose of this conceptual paper is to explore intersectional theory and its relationship with social identity theory. This paper will offer an initial review of intersectionality in the treatment of substance use and mental health disorders, as well as its use in leisure research. This paper will then examine how intersectional theory can be applied to social identity research with individuals in substance use and mental health treatment services and their leisure experiences.Conclusions: The paper proposes that intersectional theory and social identity theory exist in a state of tension and that this tension should be accounted for when working with marginalized populations, such as those with substance use and mental health disorders.