SOCIAL INTERACTION IN ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT FORMER DRUG ADDICTS

Abstract

Narcotics, Psychotropics, and Addictive Substances (NAPZA) remain a significant social issue in Indonesia. Data from the Indonesian National Narcotics Agency (BNN) in 2019 indicated a decrease in the prevalence of drug abuse by 0.03% compared to the previous year, with the majority of users belonging to the productive age group of 15–65 years. This condition has generated broad social impacts, particularly for former drug users (ex-addicts) who are attempting to recover and reintegrate into society.However, the process of social reintegration is often hindered by negative stigma, discrimination, and low levels of social acceptance, which affect the quality of social interactions and economic opportunities available to former addicts. This study employs a literature review method, utilizing chronological analysis, thematic analysis, and document studies as data collection techniques.The findings reveal that social interactions between former drug addicts and the wider community remain relatively limited due to social and psychological barriers, including low self-concept and persistent negative stereotypes. Nevertheless, supporting factors such as individual resilience, family support, and participation in economic empowerment activities can strengthen the process of social adaptation.Economic empowerment initiatives, including skills training, social enterprises, and entrepreneurship programs, have been shown to enhance self-confidence, expand social networks, and improve the self-image of former addicts in the eyes of society. These findings highlight the crucial role of social workers in creating inclusive, supportive, and stigma-free social environments, thereby providing former drug addicts with equal opportunities to participate in community life.Social workers act as facilitators, counselors, and mediators who help build trust between former addicts and their social environment. Through an economic empowerment approach, social workers not only focus on improving financial capacity but also on strengthening personal capacity, work motivation, and social skills development, all of which contribute to individual independence and the sustainability of the recovery process.