Doctoral thesis entitled: The Evolutionary Path of Relapse Experiences in the UAE Society: An Approach in Light of the Focal Point Theory
The current study aimed to uncover the conditions of female addiction to narcotic substances and psychotropic substances using Dorothy Smith's feminist standpoint theory methodology for data collection through in-depth interviews, which are a cornerstone in the phenomenological perspective. The study focused on six main axes: first, the factors and conditions leading to entering the world of addiction; second, the factors of continuation and escalation; third, the family’s stance upon learning about the addiction condition; fourth, the motivators for seeking treatment and rehabilitation; fifth, the efficiency of treatment and rehabilitation programs provided in specialized centers; and finally, the current relationship with society.
The study sample consisted of 24 female people with drug addiction interviewed in treatment and rehabilitation centers in the Emirate of Dubai, represented by the Erada Center for Treatment and Rehabilitation, Aounak Center for Social Rehabilitation, the Correctional and Punitive Institutions, and the International Protection Center. The results showed that the pre-addiction conditions included self-motivations such as deteriorating mental health, taking painkillers and some medical drugs to relieve pain, or boredom, weak parental supervision, and fragmented social networks. Contextual factors included some respondents being in addicted families, others in unstable families, constant family disputes, and the influence of friends. The results also showed that the addicts did not stop their addiction either due to the continuation of initial conditions, habituation to drug use, or the ease of obtaining narcotic substances. The study indicated that the motivators for seeking treatment included the addicts’ self-motivation such as the desire for change or the desire not to cut off communication with close family and friends, and some sought treatment due to family encouragement or referral from police centers. The study results indicated that most respondents were highly satisfied with the centers, programs, and overall services provided, while some expressed dissatisfaction with the content of these programs. The results in the axis of the relationship with society showed a disparity among respondents, with some seeing a lack of trust in society and returning to normal life, while others believed they could integrate into society and adapt to the new situation with the skills and knowledge they have acquired.
Keywords: patriarchal structures, drug addiction, female addiction, feminist standpoint theory.
