Color-Blind Bootstraps: Advancing an Intersectional Framework for Fostering Recovery

Area of Science:

• Addiction and Recovery Studies
• Social Determinants of Health
• Health Equity

Background:

• Traditional 12-step programs focus on substance misuse but often neglect systemic factors.
• These programs can overlook individual identity markers and co-occurring health conditions.
• Existing recovery models may inadvertently perpetuate disparities by ignoring social and economic inequities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critically examine how "bootstrap" mentalities and redemption narratives in addiction recovery obscure systemic disparities.
• To advocate for an intersectional framework in understanding and addressing substance misuse.
• To propose a reimagining of inclusive recovery communities.

Main Methods:

• Personal reflection on lived experiences with addiction and recovery.
• Critical analysis of "color-blind" approaches in addiction recovery.
• Theoretical examination of intersectionality in public health.

Main Results:

• "Bootstrap" and redemption narratives in recovery can mask systemic inequities and lead to "color-blind" addiction recovery.
• Current recovery models fail to adequately address the complex interplay of identity, social factors, and addiction.
• Individualistic approaches to recovery do not account for the root causes of substance misuse.

Conclusions:

• An intersectional understanding of substance misuse recovery is essential.
• Recovery communities must move beyond individualistic choices to address systemic adversities.
• Inclusive recovery models require acknowledging and integrating diverse identities and social contexts.