How do Past, Present and Future Weigh into Trajectories of Precarity? The Time Perspectives of Young Psychoactive Substance Users Living in Situations of Social Precarity in Montreal. (January 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Wagner, Vincent; Flores-Aranda, Jorge; Villela Guilhon, Ana Cecilia; Knight, Shane; Bertrand, Karine
• Is Part Of: Qualitative health research. Volume 32:Number 2(2022)
• Page Start: 195
• Page End: 209
• Publication Date: 2022-01
• Subjects: social precarity -- substance misuse -- socio-occupational integration -- time perspective -- young adults -- qualitative research; Health -- Periodicals; Health behavior -- Periodicals; Health -- Research -- Methodology -- Periodicals; Health behavior -- Research -- Methodology -- Periodicals; 610.7205
• DOI: 10.1177/10497323211051671
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1049-7323

Abstract

Young psychoactive substance users in social precarity are vulnerable to a range of health and social issues. Time perspective is one aspect to consider in supporting change. This study draws on the views expressed by young adults to portray their subjective experience of time, how this perception evolves and its implications for their substance use and socio-occupational integration trajectories. The sample includes 23 young psychoactive substance users ( M = 24.65 years old; 83% male) in social precarity frequenting a community-based harm reduction centre. Thematic analysis of the interviews reveals the past to be synonymous with disappointment and disillusionment, but also a constructive force. Participants expressed their present-day material and human needs as well as their need for recognition and a sense of control over their own destiny. Their limited ability to project into the future was also discussed. Avenues on how support to this population might be adapted are suggested.