Browsing by Author "Gibbons, Emma"

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    Challenges experienced by service users during substance dependency aftercare and reintegration services
    (Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2019-12) Gibbons, Emma; Slabbert, Ilze; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. Dept. of Social Work.
    ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Substance dependency has been a growing epidemic for the past century, and difficulties surrounding this disorder are not easily overcome. In this light, the recent relapse statistics being as high as 75% after a 3 to 6 month period of a recovering addict receiving formal treatment are extremely alarming. Consequently, the goal of the research study was to gain an understanding of the challenges experienced by adult service users during aftercare and reintegration services for substance dependency. The study utilised the Biopsychosocial model as a theoretical underpinning to distinguish between the various biological, psychological, social and cultural challenges surrounding aftercare and reintegration services for recovering addicts. A qualitative research approach with some quantitative elements, along with an exploratory and descriptive research design, was followed for this study. Ethical clearance was obtained. The empirical data that was collected was done through semi-structured interviews with a sample of 18 participants. These participants were formerly discharged from formal treatment for substance dependency and are currently service users of aftercare and reintegration services. Certain criteria for inclusion applied. Participation in this study was voluntarily and participants could withdraw from the study if they wished to. The interviews were audiotaped and transcribed by the researcher. Through the data collected and analysed, four themes with relevant sub-themes and categories emerged. The four themes identified were biological challenges, psychological challenges, social challenges and cultural challenges. The data was also verified as far as possible by ensuring credibility, transferability, dependability and conformability. To meet the aim of the study, the researcher described the literature, policy and legislative frameworks pertaining to current substance dependency aftercare services and explored service users’ lived experiences with aftercare services. By empirically investigating the research topic, the views and experiences of service users regarding their challenges during aftercare and reintegration services were explored. Thereafter, the contextualised literature and empirical findings were reviewed, so that the researcher was able to provide relevant conclusions and recommendations. It is evident from this study that service users are experiencing several challenges during aftercare and Stellenbosch University https://scholar.sun.ac.za iii reintegration services. It is recommended that further research be conducted regarding these services for the dependent person as well as for the family. More research on the implementation procedures of policies and legislation during substance dependency aftercare and reintegration services is also recommended.