Understanding and Working with Substance Misusers

"Building on the principles of motivational interviewing and a whole systems approach, Aaron Pycroft masterfully addresses the complexity of substance misuse. The inclusion of up-to-date neurological research enhances our understanding of the nature of addiction as a multi modal phenomenon. Educators in the helping professions and addiction experts will find Understanding and Working with Substance Misusers a highly informative and thought-provoking resource. Uniquely, this text is enhanced by the cross fertilization of addiction concepts and evidence-based research from both sides of the Atlantic."                                                                 
―Katherine van Wormer, University of Northern Iowa

Understanding and Working with Substance Misusers explores the complex nature of addiction and the challenges involved in responding effectively through policy and practice. It examines the biopyschosocial elements of addiction to substances (including alcohol) and, draws together key research findings from these fields to present a new framework for integrating theory and practice.

The book argues that the best way to understand addictions is as examples of "complex self organizing systems", which comprise many interacting component parts. In so doing, it addresses the problem of service users presenting with multiple needs (including poly drug use, mental health problems, criminal behavior, unemployment and relationship difficulties) and the challenges that this poses for policy makers, services commissioners and practitioners alike.

This book fills the need for a text which makes the complex issues surrounding substance misuse accessible to both students and practitioners. As such, it fosters a multidisciplinary and critically reflective approach to policy and practice.

Aaron Pycroft is a Senior Lecturer at Institute of Criminal Justice Studies, University of Portsmouth.