Alcohol consumption among women: a qualitative analysis

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To assess life histories of alcohol consumption among women in specialized treatment center for alcohol dependency. METHODS: A qualitative study using a life-history approach was carried out in a sample comprising 13 women being treated in an alcohol and drug treatment and research outpatient clinic from May to August 2000. A focused/theme approach of their experience was used. Thirteen semi-structured interviews were performed and recorded for content analysis. RESULTS: The following categories were identified in the interviews transcribed: 1) "Engaging in pleasant activities, as working and leisure, before alcohol abuse and dependency", 2) "Lost of control over alcohol consumption and onset of clinical, social and family problems", 3) "Harm perception motivating seeking out specialized treatment", 4) "Need to recover self-esteem", 5) "Acceptance and respect for specialized treatment" and 6) "Learning to live again: coping with dependency". CONCLUSIONS: Alcohol abuse women need special attention from health providers and their family, mostly to what concerns their emotional aspects and clinical problems and promotion of self-esteem. These actions should allow them to regain their social role aiming at assuring the ongoing recovery process.