Semester

Summer

Date of Graduation

2022

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Type

MA

College

Eberly College of Arts and Sciences

Department

Sociology and Anthropology

Committee Chair

Walter DeKeseredy

Committee Co-Chair

James Nolan

Committee Member

James Nolan

Committee Member

Rashi Shukla

Abstract

There is a lack of knowledge on how the process of desisting (i.e., maintaining abstinence) works for those leaving immersed drug lifestyles, leaving a need for a better understanding of the role and impact of identity in drug desistance. Through secondary analysis of interview data from a sample of 33 former methamphetamine manufacturers, this study examines the applicability of Maruna’s (2001) redemption narrative framework and identifies other aspects featured in their narratives that signaled identity change. Results found all participants discussed at least one component of the framework in their interviews. Their narrative identities changed over time to recognize that desistance is a logical necessity and created self-stories that include new purposes and roles. This study reveals that the construction of a redemption narrative may aid in maintaining abstinence from the drug lifestyle despite challenges and barriers and provide insights to better serve those at risk for relapsing.

Embargo Reason

Publication Pending

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