This thesis presents an exploratory qualitative study of the lives and experiences of drug users throughout their drug using and drug treatment careers. The research sample consists of thirty three drug users from two locations in the West of Dublin. The thesis pays particular attention to the identities the research participants form as drug users... and the stigma they experience as drug users.

In exploring the identity and stigma issues faced by drug users throughout their drug using and drug treatment careers, the thesis utilises the theoretical framework on social identity developed by sociologist Erving Goffman (1963). The thesis provides a 'thick' description of the lives, of the research participants, and thus gives a voice to a group who are largely unheard.

Data was collected through the use of semi-structured interviews, which was later collated, coded and analysed using the principles of qualitative analysis. Through these measures this thesis provides a detailed account of the lives of drug users from childhood through to adulthood.