Part 1

The first part of the project studies the role of conscience in recovery from alcohol addiction. The consideration of the field identifies deficiencies to be managed through the study of conscience and its influence through spirituality on progressive recovery. The research focuses on clarifying the important relationships of the aforementioned concepts. The methodological design is formulated through Narrative Analysis which provides the framework for the collection of data, its analysis and articulation in the discussion. Twelve participants defined by the similarities in their addiction and recovery backgrounds but diverse in their personal demographic characteristics are interviewed through the use of semi-structured interview protocol. Their stories are analysed and establish the results which evidence that the addiction suppressed conscience is rejuvenated by the experience of spiritual transformation defined through personal divine encounter and relationship. In light of the specialised literature the discussion identifies the significance of the spiritual impact on conscience and the latter crucial role in the recovery from alcohol addiction. The conscientious spiritual transformation shapes not only the individual’s recovery but also redefines life structures and purpose, forms virtuous character and underpins one’s wellbeing. The research establishes the foundation for developing conscience therapy as evidence-based treatment for facilitating spiritual conscientious transformation and progressive recovery from substance misuse.

The whole study is published in a book, Zhekov, Y. K. Conscience in recovery from alcohol addiction: Exploring the role of spirituality in conscientious transformation. Foreword by Professor Geoffrey M. Stephenson. (378 pages). Eugene, Oregon: Resource Publications, 2013. (See in Books)