Adolescent Recovery From Substance Use in Alternative Peer Groups

Abstract

The researchers conducted a revelatory case study of the alternative peer group model through an exploration of experiences of former clients of a recovery support group for youth. A phenomenological approach was employed, and 11 alumni who have maintained long-term sobriety since attending the program in the 1970s and 1980s were interviewed. Findings are presented on the lived experiences of the participants including the following themes that were identified: relationships, before and after sobriety, and resentments.

• adolescence
• drug use
• alternative peer group
• revelatory case study design
• phenomenology

Notes

Declaration of Conflicting Interests The author(s) declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/orPUBLICation of this article.

Funding The author(s) received no financial support for the research, authorship, and/orPUBLICation of this article.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Judith A. Nelson

Judith A. Nelson is an associate professor in the Counselor Education Department and Acting Chair of the Educational Leadership Department at Sam Houston State University, Huntsville, Texas.

Susan E. Henderson

Susan E. Henderson is a graduate of the Counselor Education Program at Sam Houston State University, Huntsville, Texas.

Steve Lackey

Steve Lackey is a graduate of the doctoral Counselor Education Program at Sam Houston State University, Huntsville, Texas, and a licensed professional counselor in private practice.