Social and transitional identity: exploring social networks and their significance in a therapeutic community setting
Author:
Best David,I. Lubman Dan,Savic Michael,Wilson Ann,Dingle Genevieve,Alexander Haslam S.,Haslam Catherine,Jetten Jolanda
Abstract
Purpose
– There is considerable literature indicating the importance of social connectedness and its relationship to wellbeing. For problem substance users, a similar literature emphasises the importance of the transition from a social network supportive of use to one that fosters recovery. Within this framework, the therapeutic community (TC) is seen as a critical location for adopting a transitional identity (i.e. from a “drug user” to a “member of the TC”), as part of the emergence of a “recovery identity” following treatment. The purpose of this paper is to outline a model for conceptualising and measuring identity based on the theories of social identity and recovery capital, and pilots this model within a TC setting.
Design/methodology/approach
– A social identity mapping was used with TC residents to test their identification with “using” and “TC” groups, and their relationship to recovery capital.
Findings
– The network mapping method was acceptable to TC residents, and provided valuable insights into the social networks and social identity of TC residents.
Research limitations/implications
– This paper explores issues around mapping social identity and its potential in the TC and other residential settings.
Originality/value
– The paper integrates a number of conceptual models to create a new framework for understanding transitions in social networks during treatment and reports on a novel measurement method underpinning this.
Subject
Psychiatry and Mental health,Clinical Psychology,Health Professions (miscellaneous),Phychiatric Mental Health
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