Therapy comes in all shapes and sizes. Treatment facilities vary with techniques of therapy. Sociometry is the study and measurement of interpersonal relationships in a group of people. The focuses on relational issues when it comes to addiction runs parallel to regular treatment. During drug and alcohol use, an addict’s behavior will affect loved ones’ lives, also. Relations between people are broke down. Sociometry explores connections to find ways for the addict to return to a healthy balance. The relationships cannot always be put back together. The addict will at least have a sense of what and how others have been affected and learn from past errors.
The addict’s use creates shame, guilt, manipulation, and other faulty behaviors and emotions. People involved in the addict’s life will also have feelings of anger, resentment, and empathy. Behaviors get out of control for both parties and the addiction separates each person. The addict will use the other person to get what they need to feed the addiction. The other individual will become angry, codependent, or feel guilty for helping in the wrong ways. The cycle continues until one or the other party has had enough. Getting help begins the road to recovery.
When an addict first joins a group therapy session, listening is key. The addict will feel uncomfortable and often not participate in the first few sessions. The certified therapist can take note on how resilient a client will be and evaluate as improvements happen. Sociometry can be focused for a short or long duration of time in order to find the client’s faults and skills in communication. The addict will learn to clarify roles and values of others. Understanding empathy, reciprocity, and social interaction develop self-awareness for the individual.
As therapy continues, the addict can focus on the communication skills to move forward and reconnect with those who have been hurt by addiction. The therapist’s opportunity to study the interaction of the addict with others builds a foundation to grow on. Bringing in others, from the addict’s personal life, will assist in treatment and recovery. Group sessions provide support, connection, and education. The more the addict learns about themselves the better the chance of succeeding in recovery and rebuilding relationships with those who were hurt.
The feelings of disconnection and loneliness can be overwhelming when dealing with addiction. Sociometry, group therapy, and understanding can be found at Design for Change. Give us a call today to begin the change. (877)267-3647