In their own words : the experience of problem drug users on probation

Abstract

In the light of the high prevalence of problem drug users among probationers in the Maltese context and the common exclusion of probationers' perception of probation supervision, this dissertation is set to explore the experience of drug users on probation. Through the exploration of probationers' perceptions, this study also seeks to develop an understanding of the impact of probation on probationers' drug using behaviour. Given the exploratory nature of the study, this dissertation adopts a qualitative approach and analyses data elicited from semi-structured interviews conducted with ten probationers who commenced their probation period with a drug problem. Following an integrated theoretical framework, findings from this study suggest that probationers attribute a rehabilitative and deterrent function to probation, with the large majority of probationers reporting that probation had some effect on their drug using behaviour. Internal motivation emerged as a requisite for behaviour change, while findings suggest that in part, drug testing and positive supervisory relationships contribute to a self-reported reduction in probationers~ drug using behaviour.