A Study of the Lived Experience of Motherhood in Women Undergoing Treatment for Drug Addiction

Gorji, Parivash; Khanjani, Mahdi

doi:10.22055/jacp.2025.48534.1431

A Study of the Lived Experience of Motherhood in Women Undergoing Treatment for Drug Addiction

https://doi.org/10.22055/jacp.2025.48534.1431

Volume 11, Issue 3
Spring 2025

Pages 1-18

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Parivash Gorji ¹

Mahdi Khanjani ²

¹ Master's Degree in General Psychology, Department of Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Allameh Tabataba’i University, Olympic Village, Tehran, Iran

² Assistant Professor, Department of Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Allameh Tabataba’i University, Olympic Village, Tehran, Iran.

Abstract

Women's addiction remains a taboo topic in society, despite advances in research and growing awareness. This taboo and denial do not prevent the rising prevalence of addiction, particularly among women. The lack of societal attention to this issue highlights the need for a deeper investigation into women’s addiction. In addition to their significant role in society, women, through motherhood, have the power to shape the well-being or adversity of future generations. Therefore, understanding the complex and often hidden world of women struggling with addiction can help address their needs for reintegration into normal life and enhance preventive measures. The aim of this study was to explore the lived experience of motherhood in women undergoing treatment for drug addiction. This qualitative study utilized a phenomenological approach. The sample consisted of 20 mothers selected through purposeful sampling from women undergoing rehabilitation or with a history of rehabilitation at the "Parvin House" center in District 15 of Tehran. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews focused on the experiences of motherhood and addiction and were analyzed using the Colaizzi method. The data analysis revealed three main themes: "Mother," "Acceptance of the Inalienable Title," and "Loss," along with 19 related sub-themes. The findings of this study highlight the inherent vulnerability of humans and their tendency to be reactive. This concept was evident in all the main and sub-themes identified. Recognizing this as a fundamental belief and the prevailing attitude toward drug addiction could lead to significant changes in the strategies for combating drug addiction. The key actions include the establishment of transient centers, the creation of mobile teams throughout the city, the establishment of voluntary rehabilitation camps, and the decriminalization of drug addiction. All these actions can be effectively implemented within the framework of harm reduction.

Keywords

Lived Experience of Motherhood

Women Undergoing Addiction Treatment

Drug Addiction in Women

Meaning of Motherhood

Maternal Identity

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