The objective of the thesis was to survey factors concerning self-regulation during adulthood and apply them in mental health and substance abuse rehabilitation in supportive residency.

This is a qualitative thesis with abductive reasoning. The frame of reference is based on the theory of Mass Psychology of Fascism by Wilhelm Reich. His findings were evaluated against newer studies involving e.g. learning, rehabilitation and construction of identity. Finally, they were put into perspective in relation to recent neuropsychiatric research. Furthermore, there was a practical application to this study: experiences of succeeding in everyday life were collected among rehabilitation clients. Notes were made of the clients’ own opinions on the reasons behind their successes. These were assessed towards research. Solutions in enhancing self-regulation were sought by combining theory and praxis. The findings of this thesis give one perspective to enhancing self-regulation. It can be seen valid, since it mirrors real experiences of four rehabilitation clients and subsequent research.

The findings were classified in factors preventing and supporting self-regulation. Applications into practice were outlined in the end. This thesis found existential crisis, fear of responsibility, suffocated emotions and needs, antagonistic attitude and structural factors preventing self-regulation. On the other hand, meaningful relationships, self-awareness, facing reality and finding one’s own goal in life were seen as factors supporting self-regulation. Praxis was constructed in two perspectives that forcefully arose from both research and the experiences of success: finding one’s uniqueness as well as connecting meaningfully with other people. To accomplish them, it was seen beneficial to develop mindsight, engage in professional mirroring, build social networks and learn to communicate constructively.

As a final analysis, it can be seen that self-regulation is a natural force of life and operational environment can either restrict it or enhance it. It is clear that in rehabilitation comprehensive cooperation is needed: enabling effect of society and its professionals, functioning communities and one’s own strength and flow are all needed for self-regulation to thrive.

Keywords

self-regulation, mental health and substance abuse rehabilitation, supportive residency.