Alienation and Marginalisation: a Case Study of the Social Experiences Ofmen in the Lifehouse Program, Ottawa, Ontario

This case study was developed using a qualitative approach, in order to explore experiences ofalienation and marginalisation of men with substance misuse issues. The subject group involvedmen in a residential treatment centre in Ottawa, Ontario. A structural social work approach wasused in the analysis of the data. The findings are used to suggest that the participants perceivedalienation and marginalisation as being central to the development of addiction. Participants alsoperceived the role of specific government operated systems and bureaucracies as exacerbatingthe feelings of alienation and marginalisation. Participants also discussed their view that theywere being exploited by current government management of addictive products and services.