FEATURES OF SOCIAL WORK WITH INDIVIDUALS WITH ADDICTIONS: INTERNATIONAL CONTEXT

Abstract

Introduction. The spread of addictive behavior in contemporary society is a complex social problem that goes beyond the medical and psychological approach and requires a systemic social response. Addiction undermines social ties, complicates personal adaptation, negatively affects family relationships, and increases social risks within communities. Under these conditions, social work plays a key role in providing comprehensive support, resocialization, and the protection of the rights of people with addictions. The relevance of this issue is further intensified by changes in international approaches, namely, the shift from punitive and stigmatizing models to person-centered, evidence-based, and rights-based practices, which necessitates their scholarly reflection, adaptation to the national context, and the enhancement of social workers’ professional preparedness. Purpose and objectives of the article. Purpose of the study is to examine the specific features of social work with people with addictions, taking into account international experience. Scientific novelty. Social work with people with addictions is conceptualized as an interdisciplinary process. Person-centered and rights-based approaches, including harm reduction and low-threshold services, are identified. It is substantiated that effectiveness is determined by interdisciplinary interaction, housing stability, and the professional training of social workers, while further development depends on adapting these models to the Ukrainian context. Results. The study demonstrates that social work with people with addictions is a multidimensional activity that extends beyond a purely medical approach and integrates social, psychological, legal, and cultural dimensions of assistance. International experience indicates a clear shift away from punitive and stigmatizing models toward person-centered, evidence-based, and rights-based practices. The effectiveness of social work is determined by interdisciplinary cooperation, the accessibility of low-threshold services, housing stability, and the professional training of social workers.