Conceptual and theoretical framework of the MAP-NET: A social networks analysis tool

Abstract

Social network factors constantly recur as central to explaining initiation, continuation and cessation of substance use and maintenance of long-term recovery. MAP-NET (Measure and Analysis of Personal NETwork) is a computerised instrument for assessing the personal social networks (PSN) of persons with substance misuse and related problems, and it is designed to be used in clinical interviews and to provide relevant measures for research. The article focuses on the conceptual and theoretical framework of MAP-NET and how it is operationalised. The MAP-NET interview makes it possible to identify problems and resources both in general and in relation to the specific circumstances that can be attributed to substance misuse. It provides a basis for a facetted analysis of structural, interactional and functional aspects of PSN—and how these interact. MAP-NET offers possibilities for longitudinal studies on how social networks develop over time and how this relates to substance use as well as to recovery with or without treatment. Implications for network-oriented psychosocial interventions are suggested.

Keywords:

• personal social networks
• network map
• social support
• substance misuse
• ego-centric
• computerised assessment

Public Interest Statement

Social relations are central resources, yet sometimes complicating factors, to handle various life problems, including substance misuse. Social network factors constantly recur as central to explaining initiation, continuation and cessation of substance use and maintenance of long-term recovery. Recovery is often a prolonged and complicated process in which the role of the personal social network (PSN) may vary during different phases. This article focuses on the conceptual and theoretical framework of MAP-NET (Measure and Analysis of Personal NETwork), a new computerised instrument for assessing the PSN of persons with substance misuse and related problems. It is designed to be used in clinical interviews and to provide relevant measures for research. The MAP-NET interview makes it possible to identify problems and resources both in general and in relation to the specific circumstances that can be attributed to substance misuse and the role of treatment in the recovery process.

Competing interests

The authors declare no competing interests.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by the Swedish Research Council for Health, Working Life and Welfare (FORTE) [FORTE; Dnr 2004-0948].

Notes on contributors

Anette Skårner

Anette Skårner is an associate professor of social work at the University of Gothenburg, Sweden. She has conducted several research projects in the area of substance use and applies an interactionist perspective in her research. Some of the themes focused on are the following: social networks and social support, drug use and sexuality, young people and drugs, affected family members and the client–counsellor relationship in drug treatment.

Arne Gerdner

Arne Gerdner is a professor of social work at Jönköping University, School of Health and Welfare, Sweden. His clinical research is primarily on alcohol- and drug-dependent persons with severe psychiatric comorbidity and social problems. His epidemiological research is on adolescents, concerning substance use, emotional health and social relations. Thus, his studies on substance use and social networks relate both to the development of and the rehabilitation from addiction.