EXPLORING LIVED EXPERIENCES OF WIVES OF DRUG USERS: AN INTERPRETIVE PHENOMENOLOGICAL ANALYSIS

Abstract

The present study explored the lived experiences of wives of drug users employing phenomenology research method. For that purpose, total ten participants (n =10), wives of drug users were recruited using purposive sampling technique. Data were collected using semi- structured interview form in individual setting, ensuring privacy and confidentially of the information provided. Analysis of the obtained data, via Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA), brought total five superordinate themes with subordinate themes on the surface, including1) Perception of Drug Use with five subordinate themes 2) Psychological Difficulties with eleven subordinate themes, 3) Social Difficulties with five subordinate themes, 4) Marital Difficulties with four subordinate themes, and 5) Coping with Psychosocial and Marital Difficulties with nine subordinate themes. Overall qualitative analysis, by delving into the heart of their lived experiences, vividly showed the adverse consequences for women living with drug dependent husbands. Findings of the present study are conducive in developing effective exclusive treatment plan and support system for this vulnerable group of women.