Title

Social Support: A Mixed Blessing for Women in Substance Abuse Treatment

Department/School

Social Work

Date of this version

2010

Document Type

Article

Keywords

social networks, social support, substance abuse, substance use disorders, women

DOI

https://doi.org/10.1080/1533256X.2010.500970

Abstract

Using a personal social network framework, this qualitative study sought to understand how women in substance abuse treatment describe their network members' supportive and unsupportive behaviors related to recovery. Eighty-six women were interviewed from residential and outpatient substance abuse treatment programs. Positive and negative aspects of women's social networks were assessed via open-ended questions. Analysis was guided by grounded theory techniques using 3 coders. The findings extend classic social support concepts such as emotional, tangible, and informational support. Practice implications are presented in light of the potential roles network members may play in substance use and recovery.

Volume

10

Issue

3

Published in

Journal of Social Work Practice in the Addictions

Citation/Other Information

Tracy, E. M., Munson, M. R., Peterson, L. T., & Floersch, J. E. (2010). Social support: A mixed blessing for women in substance abuse treatment. Journal of Social Work Practice in the Addictions, 10(3), 257-282. https://doi.org/10.1080/1533256X.2010.500970

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