Social Factors of Amphetamines Use from the Perspective of Users: The Qualitative Arm of the ATTUNE Research Study in the Czech Republic
Abstract
BACKGROUND: High-risk methamphetamine use is frequent in the Czech Republic and includes long-term injecting use. Relatively, the Ústí nad Labem region shows a higher level of methamphetamine use in comparison to other regions in the Czech Republic, which makes it possible to study the trajectories of drug use and its determinants in a unique manner mirroring the social situation of the region and its numerous social problems.
METHODS: Interviews were transcribed and coded in NVIVO. The coding approach was thematic analysis and the coding framework was based on the biopsychosocial model and consumption periods.
RESULTS: The dependent and remitted users described family, peers, and partners as significant in relationto the use of amphetamines. Informants from other groups did not attribute significance to the family in their accounts.
DISCUSSION: The frequent and non-frequent users related their use to nightlife settings, while the situation was more complicated in the case of the dependent and remitted users. CONCLUSIONS: The frequent and non-frequent users related their use to parties and music festivals.
Relationships with partners, peers, and family were described by the dependent and remitted informants as a risk factor in terms of an increase in the level of use, as well as a supportive factor in terms of a reduction of use. Employment provides occupation for users and a sense of confidence and it is thus a crucial aspect of recovery. (C) 2021, Sdruzeni SCAN.
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