Social Reintegration of Rehabilitated Drug Abusers: An Explorative Investigation of Views of Rehabilitees in Lagos, Nigeria

Abstract

Objective: This study examined the influence of family structure, employment opportunities, marital status and stigmatization on reintegration of rehabilitated drug abusers in Lagos, Nigeria. Method: This study used the qualitative research design to collect data from 50 respondents. The study was conducted in a Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital using the outpatient clinic. Data were analysed adopting the phenomenological approach of analysis. Nvivo 12 plus was used to analyse the data. Findings: Immediate family members were supportive of drug abusers’ reintegration with those from monogamous family receiving more support than those from the polygamous family structure. Being married is an important factor in rehabilitation and reintegration as expressed by the respondents. Being employed either in private or private sector assisted them in keeping their eyes off drugs. Stigmatization was experienced at community level, workplaces and even among friends and peer. Conclusion: Efforts should be put in place to educate members of the public on the need to support drug abusers undergoing rehabilitation and reintegration for total reintegration into the society. This involves avoiding any of stigmatization towards rehabilitated drug abusers.