Synopsis: Academic research in alcohol addiction presents diverse
results and subject inadequacies. This study identifies conscience and
its influence through spirituality on successful recovery as promoting
unity and adequacy in the field. The purpose of the study is to analyze
the relationship between conscience, spirituality, and recovery from
alcohol addiction. This threefold framework underlines the conceptual
importance of cognition, affect, behaviour, spirituality, and character
in addiction studies. Narrative analysis (NA) is employed for designing
the present research. It is utilised for collection, examination, and
formulation of the results derived from the participants' stories.
Semi-structured interviews are used within the NA framework to provide
the data from the twelve participants. The latter are selected as a
homogeneous group based on characteristics of their addiction,
spirituality, and recovery. The analysis of narratives defines
conscience with its cognitive, emotive, and conative elements as related
to spirituality. The conscience's nature and functioning undergo
deterioration during addiction and complete rejuvenation through
participants' spiritual transformation of a transcendent divine
experience. Spiritually empowered conscience supports progressive
recovery from alcohol addiction. The conscientious approach to self,
life, and others is shaped by virtue and spiritual commitment. Author
Biography: Yordan Kalev Zhekov holds two master's and a doctorate in
theology, as well as a master's in addiction psychology and counselling.
He continues his research in developing conscience therapy on the
professional doctorate programme at Middlesex University, UK. Dr. Zhekov
works in the field of homelessness and as a substance misuse counsellor.
He is the author of Defining the New Testament Logia on Divorce and
Remarriage in a Pluralistic Context (2009).
