Female drug addicts : the access to drug rehabilitation programme

Abstract

This study probes into the drug rehabilitation treatment programmes being provided in the Maltese Islands and aims to disclose the situation, delineating the chances female drug addicts encounter when trying to make use of drug rehabilitation programmes. Thus this study aims at investigating the access provided for females by comparing the lived experiences of both genders. Furthermore the social workers also have a significant part in this research with the intention to enrich the data and conclude with a valid discussion. To allow the triangulation of the study, surveys with social workers working at the rehabilitation centres were carried out to include professional background. Participants chosen were clients following a programme provided by the two main governmental agencies which are Sedqa and Caritas. Other clients were chosen from OASI foundation in Gozo. This research aims to point out the limitations of female drug abusers from seeking treatment. This study shows that the system needs constant individual attention to individuals both males and females. However specific rehabilitation treatment for females needs to be addressed.