| Abstract: | Despite its theoretical and pragmatic importance, the etiology of abstinence among committed addicts has received surprisingly little attention. Based on in-depth interviews with samples of both institutionalized and noninstitutionalized addicts, this study presents a new theory of narcotic abstinence which, like much of the best work in this area, draws heavily from interactionist social psychology. Examination of the available evidence shows that, contrary to much theoretical speculation, the addict's nondeviant primary relations are not of major importance in the inception of a desire for abstinence. Rather, successful attempts at abstinence typically follow an intense “existential crisis” which forces the addict to reevaluate substantial parts of the symbolic motivational structures which create and sustain addiction. The reasons for the onset of this personal crisis, and the range of the addict's typical responses, are examined as part of an overall theory of abstinence. |
