The Effects of Social Relationships on Chemically Dependent Persons

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The Effects of Social Relationships on Chemically Dependent Persons: A Lifespan Development Perspective Johnny B. McCall, Jr. Liberty University Human Growth and Development Dr. D. Washington May 11, 2012 Abstract The majority of research today in the chemical addiction treatment profession consists of discovering what evidence-based treatment methods there are that explicitly predict successful treatment outcomes. Additionally, various approaches are examined with the most popular being Cognitive Behavioral and related models. Thus, the focus is on how the individual must act in order to remain free from addictive behaviors. Though personal accountability is paramount in remaining alcohol and drug free, current research tends to overlook the perspective of how social support systems affect those in recovery. This paper proposes that in the field of chemical dependency treatment, one’s ability to remain clean and sober diametrically correlates to their social environment preeminent of the individual’s ability. The researchers examined, further described the specific protective factors and risk factors involved. Additionally, this paper surveyed chemical dependency treatment throughout the lifespan from adolescence through late adulthood who are from varied socio-economic statuses. Significant research supports that 12-Step groups, sober living houses, oxford houses, and maintaining positive social support systems can advantageously influence long-term recovery. The Effects of Social Relationships on Chemically Dependent Persons: A Lifespan Development Perspective Current research shows that chemical dependence continues to be pervasive throughout all lifestyles in our modern society; however, by developing an obdurate social support system, those caught in the thralls of their addiction develop formable defenses against the malady of their

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