Social Workers' Perspectives on Strengthening Parents in the Context of Inpatient Addiction Rehabilitation. A Reflexive Thematic Analysis.

Abstract

Purpose:  In inpatient addiction rehabilitation, the context factors of parenthood and family have long been neglected, and evidence-based inpatient, standardized programs to strengthen rehabilitants in their role as parents are not routinely implemented in Germany. Social workers are highly involved in the field of addiction and youth welfare support. Therefore, this study aimed to capture their perspectives on how to strengthen parents in the context of an inpatient addiction rehabilitation intervention.

Methods:  Semi-structured expert interviews were conducted with social workers working with parents with substance use disorder (SUD) in ambulatory settings. The interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using Reflexive Thematic Analysis.

Results:  The analysis identified four main themes that are crucial for strengthening rehabilitants in their parental role. Theme one deals with the exploration of different spheres of parenthood as intervention content: the subjective perception as a parent, the parental role as a child carer, and as family manager. Theme two concerns the methods through which (theoretical knowledge transfer, reflexive and practical exercise) and social settings in which (single, one-to-one, and group settings) this intervention content shall be provided. In theme three, the importance of a sensitive and cooperative professional attitude of rehabilitation associated professional health and social care workers - towards rehabilitants and professionals alike - is included. Theme four stresses the need for a family-centered rehabilitation organization by working as a professional interinstitutional network and arranging adequate childcare.

Conclusion:  Results show that social workers see substantial potential in inpatient addiction rehabilitation for strengthening parents with SUD in their parenting role. The multifaceted parental role should be examined in depth during rehabilitation in a trusting atmosphere. After discharge, especially (social pedagogical) follow-up care is considered crucial for perpetuating insights and progressions and sustainably strengthening rehabilitants, thus, the family system as a whole.