Turning points in addiction careers: five case studies

Abstract

On the way to recovery from addictive behaviours many people experience certain turning points. These moments are approached here through five case studies of individuals who have been able to overcome their addictions. Both process-related and narrative concepts are used as tools of analysis. The turning points of these individuals seemed to involve a heightened awareness and a cognitive-emotional shift, in which a person's regular pattern of seeing, interpreting and approaching things is suddenly changed. Some of these experiences are characterized by an internal conflict resolution, others by a confrontation with reality. Still others reflect a commitment to a goal. Turning point experiences give rise to vivid memories that guide later decision making. They also serve as a means of highlighting the moral of their story.