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Positive by-products of the struggle with chemical dependency
C McMillen1, M O Howard, L Nower
1George Warren Brown School of Social Work, Washington University, Campus Box 1196, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA. cmcmille@gwbssw.wustl.edu
Abstract:
Focus groups were conducted to identify ways persons in recovery from chemical dependence think they have benefited from their struggles with addiction. Categories of positive by-products were identified independently by two sets of readers. Several of the positive by-products discussed by the focus group participants are commonly reported from other kinds of challenging life experiences. These include increases in self-efficacy, family closeness, closeness with others, compassion and spirituality, and changes in life priorities. Additional positive by-products were discussed by the focus group participants that may be more unique to substance abuse and other similar stressors, including increased self-knowledge, enhanced ability to help offspring with substance abuse-related issues, and decreased naïveté. Ways to incorporate knowledge about these positive by-products into substance abuse treatment programs are introduced.
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