Date of Conferral

2021

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Psychology

Advisor

Jessica Hart

Abstract

This study explored treatment engagement among formerly incarcerated adult males in a community-based substance abuse treatment program who experienced barriers related to sexual and violent trauma histories. Fully engaging in treatment requires a readiness to become and remain sober, and for those who suffer from trauma, such readiness may be absent, and continued substance use may be their way to cope with pain. This study explored a gap in the literature concerning how sexual and violent trauma might play a role as barriers to engaging in substance abuse treatment among formerly incarcerated males. Understanding how such traumas impact treatment engagement may allow mental health professionals to improve treatment and delivery, increase treatment engagement, and thus treatment success. Interpretative phenomenological analysis was the qualitative methodological design used for this study. Semi structured, one-on-one interviews were conducted with 9 participants who met the inclusion criteria to participate. The analytic procedures included coding data that were organized into themes. Findings indicated connections with family, friends, and healthy environments were critical elements in their sobriety. Participants also believed that substance abuse treatment providers could not help them unless they personally experienced addiction. This study's results add to the current literature, inform future research to further explore barriers to substance abuse treatment engagement, and promote positive social change to improve professional methods and processes, reduce relapse and recidivism, and enhance communities' health and safety.

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