Quality of Life in Therapeutic Communities for Addictions: A Positive Search for Wellbeing and Happiness. Issue 2 (3rd July 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Broekaert, Eric; De Maeyer, Jessica; Vandevelde, Stijn; Vanderplasschen, Wouter; Claes, Claudia; Colpaert, Kathy; Walgraeve, Maurice
• Is Part Of: Journal of groups in addiction & recovery. Volume 12:Issue 2/3(2017)
• Page Start: 207
• Page End: 221
• Publication Date: 2017-07-03
• Subjects: Addiction -- positive psychology -- quality of life -- therapeutic communities -- wellbeing; Substance abuse -- Treatment -- Periodicals; Group psychotherapy -- Periodicals; 616.86
• DOI: 10.1080/1556035X.2017.1307155
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1556-035X

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Although addiction is increasingly considered as a chronic problem, only a limited number of studies have addressed quality of life (QoL) in therapeutic communities (TCs) for addictions. This reflective conceptual article assesses the history, philosophy, and background of the TC movement as modern concept, with roots in existentialism and phenomenology, as well as the QoL approach as a "postmodern" concept, with a positive vision on wellbeing and happiness, grounded in Aristotelian rationalism. The exploration of the QoL concept situated in the context of TC values, facts, and subjects leads to the finding that both visions can go alternatively together and fertilize each other.