Unboxing the therapeutic community for addictions: a locus-of-hope theory perspective

Abstract

Purpose

The therapeutic community (TC) is a widely used treatment approach for substance use disorders. Several psychological theories have been used to explain its processes but have put less emphasis on the specific contributions of the person’s cognitive resources. This paper aims to offer a theoretical conceptualization using the locus-of-hope theory which expounds on the person’s goal-directed thinking and how it bolsters the TC process.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper reviewed contemporary theoretical perspectives on TCs and studies on locus-of-hope theory to provide arguments for locus-of-hope’s utility in understanding TCs. From this review, this paper discusses a formal conceptualization of TCs using the locus-of-hope model.

Findings

In this conceptualization, the authors explained that the TC becomes a co-agent in the person’s goal-pursuit by strengthening the individual’s beliefs regarding one’s capability to develop goals together with the will and strategies to attain these important recovery goals. The person’s hopeful thinking boosts the TC protocols in a dynamic fashion.

Originality/value

This paper offers a locus-of-hope perspective that considers the person’s contributions in bolstering the TC process. Reflections on clinical and research implications were provided. This paper aids further in unboxing of the TC.

Citation

Ramos, S.D.A. and Bernardo, A.B.I. (2022), "Unboxing the therapeutic community for addictions: a locus-of-hope theory perspective", Therapeutic Communities: The International Journal of Therapeutic Communities, Vol. 43 No. 1, pp. 51-64. https://doi.org/10.1108/TC-03-2021-0009