Bicol University

Graduate School
Legazpi City

Proposed Title: FAMILY INVOLVEMENT: SUCCESSES, CHALLENGES AND PROSPECTS OF

AFTERCARE PROGRAM CLIENTS IN ACHIEVING SOBRIETY.

Research Discipline: GUIDANCE AND COUNSELING

Theoretical Background of the Study:
This study will be anchored on Family System Theory (Kerr and Bowen 1988) a theory of human
behavior that defines the family unit as a complex social system, in which members interact to influence each
other’s behavior. Family members interconnect, allowing to view the system as a whole rather than as
individual elements. Any change in one individual within a family is likely to influence the entire system and
may even lead to changes in other members. Many interventions designed to promote behavior change in
children are directed at the parent-child unit, although according to Kerr and Bowen (1988) it may be more
beneficial to focus on the family as a whole. Family systems theory recognizes that the family plays a key role
in both emotional and physical well-being across the life course since most individuals have contact with their
family of origin through their entire lives. Families often influence day-to-day lives; families come together to
both celebrate and help each other through crises. Family systems theory emphasizes the idea that families are
continuous entities, with rules, beliefs, and values that shape members over time. 
Substance abuse and addiction can damage family dynamics, erode trust, and weaken communication.
Family members who experience a loved one battling with a substance use disorder (SUD) often endure a host
of painful emotions. Equally frustrating is the hopelessness loved ones feel in response to substance abuse.
Family members may feel at a loss when seeing a loved one caught in the grips of substance abuse. For
example, stumbling upon burnt spoons and used syringes can create paralyzing feelings of fear and shock.
However, family members can help their loved one achieve and maintain sobriety. Despite seeing a
loved one struggle, family members can and ideally do play a major role in the treatment process. The role of
family in addiction recovery is large and important.

Knowledge/ Gap to be Filled:

This study attempts to collect and analyze narratives of experiences of families of prospects of After
Care Program. Their successes and challenges will be accounted from specific family members as the subject
of this study – children and wife. The researcher believes that there has been no serious attempt at collecting
and analyzing the narratives related to children and wife of prospects of After Care Program of drug addiction.
The result of this study will be helpful to the After Care Program implementers of drug addiction understand
more and better the involvement of family in the recovery of the prospects.
Main Research Question:

1. What factors affect the family involvement in achieving sobriety?

2. How do family cope with the challenges encountered in the course of recovery of the prospects of
ACP?
3. What are the interventions needed by children and wives to sustain their involvement
in the recovery of the prospects?

Research Design, Methods and Materials:

This qualitative study will use a phenomenological method, involving a selected family members based
on a purposive sampling technique with inclusion criteria of children who were affected by the addictive
behavior of their parents and wives who have experience caring and support to their husband.
Data qualitative will be collected through in-depth and structured interviews, field notes and
observations. The process of interpreting meaning is carried out to obtain the significance of the results of in-
depth interviews accompanied by triangulation of methods and data using interpretive phenomenological
analysis. Researchers will strive to ensure the validity and reliability of the study. As an ethical consideration,
the research will also observe the confidentiality and anonymity of respondents.

References:
Comprehensive Clinical Psychology (2nd edition) Vol. 1, 2022, Pages 185Addiction
Center.com/addiction/role-family-addiction-recovery/
Gaceta Sanitaria Vol. 35.Supplemental 2, 2021, Pages 5491-5494
Sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S021391112100279x

Prepared by:
 Maria Melissa B. Sanchez

Definition of Terms for reference purpose:

Family involvement - refers to family supports in recovery and achieving a drug free family member.

After Care Program - refers to services that help recovering drug dependent persons to adapt to
everyday community life, after completing earlier phases of treatment and rehabilitation. It provides an
opportunity to address important issues and problems associated with abstinence and recovery. Aftercare
provides a safe environment for continued support till it is no longer needed.

Sobriety – simply means not being under the influence of a substance.