Oldal 15 [15]
1.
INTRODUCTION
In this chapter, the aim is to summarize the theoretical framework of the book.
This section aims to provide an overview of the recovery approach, the method
of Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA), and the connection be¬
tween the two: why using IPA to examine recovery processes is beneficial. At
the end of this sub-chapter, I would like to mention some of the Hungarian
qualitative studies that examined psychoactive and novel psychoactive sub¬
stance use.
1.1. RECOVERY
The main aim of this book is to present why examining recovery is important
and how suitable is IPA to examine recovery processes. In this sub-chapter I
will introduce the main elements of the recovery approach, and what does it
mean from the perspective of people who are in recovery and from what
condition recovery is possible according to the existing literature.
1.1.1. About the recovery approach
The concept of recovery has emerged as a significant paradigm in mental health
field when alcoholism and other addictions have been reconceptualized as dis¬
eases (rather than a failing of character) by twelve-step programs. The twelve¬
step program is originally proposed by Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) as a
method for recovery from alcoholism. The twelve-step is a guiding principle
for recovery from addiction, compulsion and other behavioural problems. The
concept of “recovery” has been applied to a process of learning to live a full life
without alcohol or drugs or problematic behaviour by admitting that one cannot
control one’s addiction or compulsion, surrender to higher power that can give
strength, examining past errors and making amends with the help of a sponsor
(experienced member, who is also in recovery), learning to live with a new code
of behaviour and helping others, who suffer from addiction or compulsion