research on addiction

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Zaer L, Abolhasan Tanhaei H, Aghaei S. Identifying the Opportunities and Threats of the Organizational Structure of Narcotics Anonymous: With an Emphasis on Organizational Strategies, Rehabilitation Mechanisms, and Therapeutic Methods. Research on Addiction 2026; 19 (78) :189-222
URL: http://etiadpajohi.ir/article-1-3251-en.html

Objective: The present study aimed to identify the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) of the organizational strategies and therapeutic modalities of Narcotics Anonymous (NA). Method: This qualitative study utilized grounded theory. The research population consisted of experts and long-term recovering members of NA with significant years of clean time. Data were collected through purposeful theoretical sampling and a semi-structured in-depth interview with 18 participants until theoretical saturation was reached. Data analysis was conducted using the Strauss and Corbin coding framework and the SWOT strategic model. Results: The realization of the association's objectives depends on maintaining a strategic balance between its strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT). Despite an institutional emphasis on equality and deliberative democracy, the organization’s survival is threatened by person-centered ideological hero-worship. Conversely, its "committee-oriented" structure and the reproduction of collective order, grounded in the shared understanding of its actors, serve as functional assets. However, excessive organizational attachment, while fostering internal cohesion, has bred a form of rigid dogmatism regarding the bylaws, hindering necessary adaptations to contemporary requirements. Furthermore, subjective biases are driving the association toward sectarianism, resulting in two confrontational stances: a monopolistic claim over addiction expertise and the systematic rejection of alternative therapeutic modalities. Conclusion: Leveraging logotherapy, NA seeks to facilitate the resocialization of individuals by reshaping their self-perception and attitudes. This framework has demonstrated significant success through the integration of abstinence-based models and group therapy. However, while facing challenges such as the exclusion of alternative therapeutic modalities and the critique regarding the shift of dependency from substances to the organization itself, it remains a robust platform for member recovery and growth