Journal of Qualitative Research in Health Sciences

Authors

University of Social Welfare & Rehabilitation Sciences

Abstract

Introduction: Addiction is a problem of the modern world. In dealing with this problem, the approach of
effective treatment is very important. One of the important issues in curing addiction is factors effective
on the decision to quit. The aim of this study has been to explore effective factors on the decision to quit
among substance abusers.
Method: This study is a part of a bigger one, which is a qualitative study undertaken with grounded
theory approach. The Participants were 22 individuals (including 16 males and 6 females) who were
substance abusers. Participants were selected using purposeful sampling and maximum variation. Data
were gathered through face-to-face interviews and semi-structural questions. Data analysis was conducted
using content analysis method.
Results: Two main categories were explored in this study. The first is "the need to survive" which
includes three subcategories: 1- to get tired from the current condition, 2- to feel threatened, and 3- to
reach the end of the line. The second category is "to set foot on the path" which includes two
subcategories: 1- recourse to spirituality, and 2- searching for information.
Conclusion: The results of this study show that deciding to quit drugs there are both facilitator and
inhibitor factors. Therefore, it is necessary that governments and addiction treatment institutes provide
social services on addiction by focusing on gender differences and education on quitting complications. In
this way, they can make families show more compassion and support, and increase motivation for
treatment and reduce the feeling of frustration in drug abusers. In addition, attention to spirituality as a
facilitator factor on the decision to quit and completing the path to recovery through families and addiction
treatment centers is of great importance.

Keywords