Date of Conferral

2-12-2025

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Psychology

Advisor

Joann McAllister

Abstract

Substance use among older persons has increased among the aging baby boomer generation. At the same time, individuals aged 65 and beyond see increased longevity. The utilization of alcohol and drugs as a means of managing associated challenges has been shown to contribute to health problems that lead to a diminished quality of life and early death rates. Empirical investigations have demonstrated that social-oriented interventions such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) have a beneficial role in sustaining an individual’s recovery process. However, joining such programs may pose challenges for African American males 65 and older due to African Americans’ distrust of social institutions based on the historical context. The purpose of this qualitative study using a transcendental phenomenological study was to explore the experience of African American males in recovery regarding the role of personal disclosure within a spiritual, social-oriented community in supporting the maintenance of sobriety. Participants in this study included four African American males 65 and older. The theoretical foundation was Bandura’s social cognitive theory. A thematic analysis of participants’ interviews was conducted to reveal patterns and identify relevant themes. Findings included the themes of shared experiences, relatability leading to trust, self-disclosure and finding support in AA. Understanding the factors that make spiritual-oriented groups beneficial for treatment providers’ efforts to engage African Americans 65 and older in treatment may improve drug misuse programs and contribute to positive social change.

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