“The relationship changed because I had changed”: Experiences and perceptions of friendships between women treated for substance use disorder in women-only residential programs

Abstract

Historically, the notion of friendships between women has been replete with negative myths and perceptions. However, studies show that friendships between women contribute to their wellbeing as a source of support and empowerment. Social support is known to be a key factor during recovery from a substance use disorder (SUD). Previous studies have examined a variety of relationships, but less attention has been paid to friendships between women with SUD. This qualitative study examined the perceptions and experiences of friendship of 14 women who recovered from a SUD and were treated in women-only residential treatment programs (RTP) in Israel. Content analysis revealed four categories that paralleled their linear life-course from childhood to adulthood: social rejection and the longing for connection and acceptance, interest-based versus non-interest-based friendships, being distant versus becoming close, and friendships with “normative” women versus friendships with “clean addicts.” Each category is situated on a conceptual axis representing the tension between trust and mistrust, the unifying theme. These findings are best understood within the framework of relational cultural theory (RCT), which emphasizes the importance of relationships in people's lives. Therapists should consider the positive impact of friendships between women, as a theme during the therapy process.