The impact of community support on addiction recovery : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science in Psychology at Massey University, Albany, New Zealand

Abstract

Historic research on recovery from addiction has maintained a focus on a medicalised model of treatment where social problems become redefined as medical problems. However, recent research has suggested that treatment models which emphasise social supports have been increasingly effective in supporting recovery from addiction. Through our research, we aimed to gain a further understanding of the impact of community support on addiction in particular peer support through qualitative interviews with members of a peer support group, Speed Freaks. A thematic analysis was then conducted which identified four main themes of; Building Connections and Belonging, the Role of Identity in Recovery, Navigating Social Perceptions and Stigma, Empowerment and Personal Growth. These themes spoke to Speed Freak’s ability to support its participants on their recovery from addiction. This provides a clear evidence to the importance of treatment models which encompass an element which looks to the support which peers can offer.