Journal of Addictions Nursing · 2009 · 21 citations · 14 references
Public HealthHealth BehaviorHealth PromotionAdolescent HealthSubstance Use DisordersSubstance Use PreventionFocus Group AnalysisFocus Group MethodsFocus Group ResearchPeer InfluencePsychosocial InterventionsSubstance Abuse PreventionAdolescent Opioid Use DisorderDrug Use By AdolescentsDrug User HealthEtiologic HypothesisFocus Group DiscussionsPeer Influences On Health BehaviorYouth Focus GroupsYouth Substance Use Prevention
Despite some hundred years of opioid use in Iran there is little evidence based literature about etiologic factors. To describe factors that increase the chances of a person for using a substance, a qualitative method was used to explore the drug user's experience. Thirty-two male participants with an age range of 21 to 53 who had been at the “Therapeutic Community” (TC) for a period of 2 days to 6 months were interviewed in focus groups. A total of 5 informal focus group discussions, in groups of 6 to 8 participants, were held. All focus group interviews were audio-taped and fully transcribed. After reading and reviewing the transcripts, sub-themes emerged and were then grouped in 3 themes: personal characteristics, family factors, and social influences. In developing and modifying preventive strategies, it is suggested that all the 3 aspects should be considered in a holistic way with particular emphasis on parental and peer influences.
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