title: Experiences of long-term tranquillizer use: a psychodynamic perspective.
abstract: The aim of the article is to analyse narrative descriptions and experiences of long-term tranquillizer use. The analysis is based on a Danish in-depth study of 50 informants with a self-diagnosed dependency on tranquillizers. The theoretical analysis is dependent on psychodynamic reasoning. Further, the psychodynamic perspective is integrated within a multi-dimensional model that considers biological, cognitive, identity, gender and social learning factors. The analysis reveals the possibility of achieving a detailed understanding of the dynamic processes involved in the development of long-term tranquillizer use. Important themes frequently mentioned in the clients' descriptions are traumatic childhood experiences, identity problems, life crises in adulthood and difficulties in stopping taking psychotropic drugs.
authors.affiliation: The Institute of Alcohol and Drug Research, University of Aarhus, Copenhagen, Denmark.
authors.forename: K T
authors.initials: KT
authors.lastname: Skinhoj
authors.forename: S
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Larsson
authors.forename: S
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Helweg-Joergensen
authors.forename: E H
authors.initials: EH
authors.lastname: Hansen
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D014151:Anti-Anxiety Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D001569:Benzodiazepines; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D008960:Models, Psychological; D010348:Patient Care Team; D019966:Substance-Related Disorders / Q000188:drug therapy*; D013997:Time Factors
chemical_list: D014151:Anti-Anxiety Agents; D001569:Benzodiazepines