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Open Access 04-07-2023 | Original Paper

Enhancing Role Integrity for Peer Workers

Authors: Alex Elswick, Melinda Murdock, Amanda Fallin-Bennett

Published in: Community Mental Health Journal | Issue 1/2024

Abstract

Although informal peer support has been a central feature of recovery for people with substance use disorder (SUD), more recently there has been a stark increase in formal models of peer support. In the infancy of formalized peer support, researchers warned of potential threats to the integrity of the peer support role. Now, almost two decades into the rapid expansion of peer support, research has yet to evaluate the extent to which peer support is being implemented with fidelity and role integrity. The present study aimed to assess peer workers’ perceptions of peer role integrity. Qualitative interviews were conducted with 21 peer workers in Central Kentucky. Results suggest that the role of peers is not well understood by onboarding organizations, and thus, the integrity of peer support is diluted. Findings from this study suggest room for improvement in the training, supervision, and implementation of peer support.

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Title: Enhancing Role Integrity for Peer Workers
Authors: Alex Elswick
Melinda Murdock
Amanda Fallin-Bennett
Publication date: 04-07-2023
Publisher: Springer US
Published in: Community Mental Health Journal / Issue 1/2024
Print ISSN: 0010-3853
Electronic ISSN: 1573-2789
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10597-023-01156-4

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Enhancing Role Integrity for Peer Workers

Abstract

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

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