A Qualitative Inquiry on Problematic Music in the Lives of Rehabilitated Substance Abusers: From Past-to-Present

Abstract

This phenomenological study explores how individuals in long-term recovery from substance use disorders (SUD) cope with problematic music (PM). Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 23 people in sustained recovery after attending treatment centers. Thematic analysis identified three distinct groups. The alternative group received no guidance on music consumption, experiencing three phases: recognizing and avoiding PM’s, adopting alternative music genres, and currently remaining susceptible to PM while exclusively listening to alternative genres. The ambivalent group were told regarding PM’s dangers and went through two phases: informed regarding the danger and avoiding PM, followed by developing ambivalence toward PM. The tolerant group participated in group music therapy, undergoing four phases: recognizing PM’s danger, avoiding PM and adopting alternative genres, developing tolerance by forming new associations with PM, and maintaining this tolerance during recovery. The study highlights the importance of music therapy in addressing musical triggers and supporting sustained recovery in individuals with SUD.

Plain language summary

How music with harmful effects played a role in the lives of people recovering from drug use - before and after recovery

This study looks at how people who have recovered from drug or alcohol problems deal with “problematic music” (PM) – music that evokes memories and emotions related to past substance use and may trigger cravings and pose risks for individuals in recovery. Researchers talked to 23 people who have been clean for a long time after going through treatment. The study found that people dealt with PM in different ways, and they could be grouped into three types: 1. The Alternative Group – these people didn’t get any advice about music in treatment. At first, they noticed that certain songs were triggering and avoided them. Then, they started listening to other kinds of music instead. Still, they said they are easily affected by old songs, so they stick to the new genres; 2. The Ambivalent Group – these participants were warned about the risks of certain music. At first, they avoided those songs, but over time they started feeling unsure – sometimes avoiding PM, sometimes listening to it; 3. The Tolerant Group – these people had group music therapy sessions as part of their treatment. They learned to recognize the dangers of PM, avoided it for a while, and switched to new music. Later, thanks to the music therapy they received, they were able to listen to PM again without it being a trigger, because they had formed new, healthier connections to that music. The study shows that understanding how different people react to music can help improve treatment programs. Music therapy can help people better manage emotional triggers related to music and support long-term recovery from addiction.