Abstract
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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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
We want to specifically acknowledge those who shared experiences with us.