In my thesis, I investigated the phenomenon of visible and public use of illicit drugs. Based on the theoretical premises discussed herein, I carried out a qualitative research with the aim of establishing how this phenomenon is related to the ways members of the open drug scene satisfy their needs and desires within both their peer network, as well as within the framework of social services. I also tried to answer the question of which strategies of satisfying needs have the most potential to bring a better understanding of their situation at the professional level and in the wider local community. I interpreted the results of my research using Goffman's concept of interaction rituals, which he developed in The Presentation of Self in Everyday Life. I drew the rest of the theoretical framework from Durkheim's concept of rituals and Collins's contemporary interpretations of the aforementioned theoretical premises. I simultaneously investigated the function of public space and linked the research questions to Lefebvre's concept of the right to city and the theory of the production of space.
The research part of the thesis confirmed that social bonds are formed between participants as a result of being present daily at certain locations, sharing common focus of attention and repeating successful interaction practices. The main motivator of such relationships is the individual's accumulation of emotional energy. On the basis of successfully implemented interaction rituals, open drug scene participants satisfy the need for proximity, security, belonging, respect and dignity. They achieve this by establishing mutual relationships or solidarity. Tensions and conflicts often arise in the community, which can emotionally exhaust individuals. Participants resolve such situations by withdrawing, breaking off contact or excluding the disruptive member. In resolving misunderstandings, unwritten rules of conduct play an important regulatory role, which have an effect on both the group and individual levels. Furthermore, open drug scene participants who use social services designed to alleviate homelessness report that they receive emotional support, as well as a sense of stability and predictability through these programs. Professionals who understand the aforementioned strategies of users and the social dynamics of the open drug scene are better equipped to identify their needs, establish deeper relationships and consequently develop more effective forms of help and support.
The insights gained into the mechanisms of succesfully chaining interaction rituals, based on which individuals select and repeat specific situations and use them to strengthen their emotional energy, can be incorporated into social work practice. It is worthwhile to listen to their existing strategies and take them into account in the further development of the network of social services in the fields of homelessness and drugs and alcohol use.
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