Fact check: People with a higher number of sexual partners are more likely to be dependent on substance abuse.

1. Summary of the results

The relationship between number of sexual partners and substance dependence is more complex than the original statement suggests. While there is a strong statistical association, particularly among women with 2.5+ partners per year showing significantly higher odds ratios for substance dependence ^[1], the causation direction is not clearly established. Research shows that substance use can affect sexual thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, suggesting the relationship might work in the opposite direction ^[2].

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints

Several crucial pieces of context are missing from the original statement:

• The correlation is particularly strong for women, with specific odds ratios of 9.6, 7.3, and 17.5 at ages 21, 26, and 32 respectively ^[1]
• The relationship appears to be bidirectional - substance use can influence sexual behavior, rather than just the other way around ^[2]
• The association was specifically with substance dependence disorder, but notably not with other mental health conditions like anxiety or depression ^[1]
• Researchers emphasize that the reasons for this association still require further investigation ^[1]

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement

The original statement presents several problematic elements:

• It implies causation when only correlation has been established
• It fails to mention that the relationship might work in reverse - substance use affecting sexual behavior ^[2]
• It doesn't specify gender differences, which are significant in the findings ^[1]

This type of oversimplification could potentially benefit:

• Conservative social groups pushing for specific behavioral standards
• Addiction treatment centers seeking to link multiple behaviors
• Organizations promoting specific moral or religious viewpoints about sexual behavior

The research suggests a much more nuanced relationship that requires further study to fully understand the underlying mechanisms ^[1].