Repositori URV

Identifier: TDX:1307

Handle: https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11797/TDX1307

Authors:
Esteve Blanch, Jaume

Abstract:
A fieldwork project has been conducted, by and large in Barcelona city (between 2009 and 2011), involving participatory observation of three Alcoholics Anonymous groups and two biomedical alcohol abuse rehab centres. The aim is to provide a self-ethnographic overview of the therapy processes and the accounts of the participants in both types of settings, analysing the similarities and unique aspects observed. Social stratification of those centres makes it possible to undertake a sociocultural assessment of the group dynamics observed, the aetiology of certain addiction cases and the outcomes of the therapy administered. The main hypothesis, entailing the corroboration of therapy groups as the most efficient means of treating alcohol abuse, is supported. This is the case even when the various approaches to said therapy and the ideological background observed in certain institutional orientations are examined in greater depth. The two secondary hypotheses are strengthened in varying manners: self-forgiveness strategies, which are often part of accounts and attitudes among most users studied, are confirmed, especially at the start of treatment; however, addictive memory, embedded in the outset of consumption, cannot be validated as an element of significance during therapy.