Keeping concerned significant others at a distance in compulsory treatment for people with substance use in Sweden

While previous drug treatment research has focused on the importance of supportive social relationships for recovery from alcohol and drugs, less is known about how this theme relates to compulsory treatment. This study analyzes staff at four institutions adult users in Sweden rationalize maintaining contact with concerned significant others (CSOs) during client’s Four focus groups (22 participants) were carried out analyzed thematically. shows that perceives initial isolation as a necessity, primarily making CSOs problem or distraction relation process. Moreover, position two broad categories, either ‘problematic’ ‘resourceful’ recovery. The categories are used justify individual regulation between clients their CSOs, which varies strictness leniency. In addition, themselves guides, finding it necessary help regulate problematic strengthen link those who seen resources. These forms regulatory work – setting rules providing guidance terms disciplinary pastoral power.