Family motivations and expectations in the care for psychoactive substance users.

Abstract

To understand the motivations and expectations of family members for the care of users of psychoactive substances. This is a qualitative study using Alfred Schutz's phenomenological sociology framework. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews with family members of substance users treated in the inpatient and outpatient clinic of a university hospital in southern Brazil. Data was interpreted through comprehensive phenomenological analysis. Five categories of motivation were identified: for fear and insecurity with the situation; for obligation; due to the relationship of love and connection; to stop suffering; to promote independent living. The motivations of the family members aim to avoid the helplessness of the substance user and to achieve positive changes in the construction of a life without the use of substances, projecting a self-sufficient future for the user.