Mapping Social Network Influences of Recovering Filipino Drug Users in Community-Based Drug Rehabilitation

• Main Authors: Manaois, Jason O, Hechanova, Ma. Regina, Estuar, Ma. Regina E
• Format: text
• Published: Archīum Ateneo 2022
• Subjects: community-based drug rehabilitation; drug recovery; Philippines; recovery capital; social influence; social network analysis; substance use disorder; Community Health and Preventive Medicine; Community Psychology; Medicine and Health Sciences; Mental and Social Health; Psychology; Public Health; Rehabilitation and Therapy; Social and Behavioral Sciences; Substance Abuse and Addiction
• Online Access: https://archium.ateneo.edu/psychology-faculty-pubs/411; https://dx.doi.org/10.13185/STJGS2022.10104
• Institution: Ateneo De Manila University

This study examined structural changes in social network influences of recovering drug users. Anchored on the theory of social influences and social network; recovering drug users’ social network interactions were mapped out using social network analysis (SNA).This study utilized exploratory sequential mixed method design.A focused group discussion (n = 12) using the name generator approach was conducted to develop a survey of the recovering drug users’ social network influences. This survey was administered preand post-community–based drug rehabilitation (n = 52). Results of the SNA show that members of the drug users’ immediate families, their friends; and their neighborhoods were significant influencers in their social network. This study also found structural changes in the social network influence post-drug intervention. There was a significant reduction in the use and mobilization of network provisions with negative influences (i.e.; stigma; maltreatment, financial aid; experiences of abandonment; carrying burdens).Participants also reported a significant increase in their recovery capital and a decrease in substance use disorder symptoms overtime. As community-based programs gain wider acceptance; policymakers and interventionists should consider the dynamics of social network structure and influences when designing drug rehabilitation and aftercare programs.