Social networks amongst people with alcohol dependence
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Social networks amongst people with alcohol dependence who frequently attend hospital: an exploratory qualitative study
IRAS ID
264871
Contact name
Stephanie Denise Fincham-Campbell
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
King's College London
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 8 months, 31 days
Research summary
There are two aspects of social networks: structural and functional. Structural aspects include the size, duration, diversity and dispersion of relationships. Functional aspects, also described as social support, include instrumental, emotional, informational, appraisal and spiritual support.
People with alcohol dependence often have fractured social networks. Social network interventions are recommended by the NHS and aim to involve family and friends in treatment and recovery and/or to create an environment that encourages abstinence and discourages drinking. Outside of treatment settings, peer support groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), can also affect social networks. However, there have been few in-depth qualitative studies and limited research exploring the social networks of people who frequently attend hospital for alcohol related reasons.
The aim of this study is to explore the social networks of people with alcohol dependence who frequently attend hospital. I would like to explore the meanings participants attach to their relationships and social networks; views of how social relationships affect drinking, general well-being and vice versa. I would also like to identify types of service and support that participants feel might improve social networks, reduce drinking and improve general well-being.
This qualitative study will involve 30 participants recruited from the Alcohol Assertive Outreach Treatment (AAOT) trial. The trial is evaluating the effectiveness of AAOT for people who frequently attend hospital for alcohol related reasons. The participants from the trial (n=200) have a diagnosis of alcohol dependence and live in the boroughs of Southwark and Lambeth in London. Interviews will be audio-recorded and last between 45 and 60 minutes. Interviews will be completed in participants’ homes, or other locations in the community, including addiction treatment services and cafes.
This study is being undertaken as part of my PhD which is funded by the NIHR Maudsley Biomedical Research Centre.
REC name
Social Care REC
REC reference
19/IEC08/0040
Date of REC Opinion
26 Jul 2019
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion