The effect of a dysfunctional family on the development of dependence and the importance of matching and motivational therapy in working with dependent clients
Abstract
Michal, 25-year-old client, has an 8-year history of multiple drug use (methamphetamine, heroin, alcohol and Rohypnol). He started using drugs in a totally different context than his peers did - he wanted to kill himself, not just enjoy himself.
The author only met him once in the therapeutic community, at the time of his undertaking the first phase of treatment (after he had completed the zero phase repeatedly). The case study shows the importance of timely and good matching, the crucial role of motivational therapy, the development of dependent and aggressive behaviour in a dysfunctional family, and the effect of a pathological relationship with a drug-using girlfriend on maintaining the client´s dependence.
All ethical requirements have been met. Most of the real client´s biographic data (such as his name and address) have been changed, and the client has agreed to his case history being used.
The anonymity of all the treatment institutions has been guaranteed.