Culturally mediated recovery: A cross-perspective qualitative study of psychosocial treatment for drug dependence in South Korea.

Résumé

BACKGROUND: Psychosocial treatment is central to recovery from drug dependence, yet most evidence comes from Western contexts emphasizing autonomy, family involvement, spirituality, and peer support. In South Korea, recovery unfolds within distinct legal and relational structures, suggesting a culturally mediated treatment process. This study examined how Korean therapists and patients experience psychosocial treatment for drug dependence.METHODS: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 22 participants (13 therapists, 9 patients) from addiction hospitals and recovery facilities. Data were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis and cross-perspective comparison.RESULTS: Therapists emphasized three areas: recognizing the underlying psychological distress driving drug use, the importance of structured environments for treatment engagement, and their own self-reflection and professional growth. Patients described varied pathways into treatment (legal mandates, fear of deterioration, relational motivation, incidental entry), gradual change through group participation, ambivalence toward recovery peers, and expectations of empathic and professional therapists. Cross-analysis revealed convergence in meaning-making, empathic therapeutic relationships, and the value of structured environments. Divergence emerged as therapists viewed recovery peers as consistently positive and highlighted their own growth, whereas patients reported mixed experiences with peers and prioritized professional expertise.CONCLUSION: Recovery in Korea is shaped by relational, structural, and cultural forces rather than individual autonomy alone. Structured environments, empathic relationships, and context-sensitive peer involvement emerged as key facilitators, underscoring the need for culturally responsive psychosocial programs, strengthened peer-counselor training, and supportive policy frameworks.