Exploring psychosocial determinants of quality of life in young adults with paternal substance use disorder in Pakistan: a phenomenological study

ABSTRACT

Background

Substance use disorder has a profound impact not only on the individuals with the disorder but also on their family members, especially children. The impact on children can be long-lasting, affecting their development and well-being throughout their life. The study explored the psychosocial determinants of quality of life in young adults with paternal substance use disorder.

Method

8 Young adults with paternal substance use disorder aged 20–30 were selected for this study. Phenomenological research design along with Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis was used to obtain an in-depth and holistic perspective. Semi-structured interviews were undertaken with the participants.

Result

Two master themes with respective sub-themes were identified i.e., psychological (psychological disturbance, childhood experience and trauma, and intra-personal difficulties) and social (educational and occupational difficulties, family dynamics and relationships issues, and social issues).

Conclusion

The study determined that young adults with paternal substance use faces many psychological and social difficulties throughout their life which impact their quality of life. Some of the repeated issues were neglect by the father and society, stigmatization, self-criticism, academic issues, and emotional problems. This study may help mental health professionals to make effective strategies to enhance the quality of life of such young adults.

KEYWORDS:

• Psychosocial determinants
• quality of life
• semi-structured interviews
• interpretative phenomenological analysis

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

The author(s) reported there is no funding associated with the work featured in this article.