Beneath the surface: collaboration in alcohol and other drug treatment. Ananalysis using Foucault's three modes of objectification

Aim of study. This study investigated the perceptions of alcohol and other drug (AOD) clinicians and consumers regarding the concepts of collaboration and empowerment. Background/rationale. Working collaboratively is seen as a cornerstone of e mpowerment, a concept used extensively over the last decade in an attempt t o isolate power and control issues. It is generally assumed that health pro fessionals strive to achieve collaboration, but little research has been un dertaken. Design/methods. The study was carried out in a variety of AOD treatment fac ilities in a large regional city in Australia. Facilities included an inpat ient detoxification unit, an outpatients' clinic, a methadone maintenance c linic, a residential detoxification and rehabilitation unit using a 12-step treatment model and a residential unit using cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). The nonprobability sample consisted of 57 staff and consumers who w ere interviewed using a semi-structured format. Data were analysed thematic ally using a Foucauldian analysis of discourse. Research findings. Findings suggest that clinicians may be unwittingly impo sing their beliefs and prejudices on consumers and in fact disempowering th e very people they want to empower. Collaboration is not happening. Foucaul t's theory of objectification illuminates the processes involved. Conclusions. There is much more happening than originally thought between c onsumers and staff when Foucault's three modes of objectification are used to examine this practice area. Analysing discourse enables us to see how he alth workers interact with consumers and the effect this may have on treatm ent objectives, outcomes and self-esteem. It also illuminates the work envi ronment where the therapeutic encounter takes place. The need for further e ffort in empowering both consumers and staff and working collaboratively be comes evident.