The use of storytelling in recovery for college students with substance use disorders

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2018-06-22

Authors

Wulbert, Rachel Pearl

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Abstract

Substance use on college campuses has received increasing attention in higher education research, with a particular focus on collegiate recovery. However, there is a lack of research in the area of storytelling. Research has shown that storytelling could be utilized with other populations as a modality to treat trauma, promote academic persistence, and enhance student connection. While research has begun to address the experiences of students in recovery as a distinct population, few researchers have addressed their unique identities and experiences as a student in higher education. Thus, this study begins to address a need for empirical research on the identities of these students and interventions that could enhance their academic experiences. The number of adults and college students that self-report substance abuse concerns subsequently receiving a substance use disorder diagnosis is increasing. These findings indicate that it is imperative for colleges and universities to have a clearer understanding of the unique needs and challenges of this population as well as promising interventions for reducing substance us and increasing class attendance, GPA, retention and graduation. The purpose of this study is to examine how storytelling shaped the meaning of the sobriety and identity among adults with substance use disorders, as well as identify variables that predict outcomes that strengthen long-term recovery.

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