I think the theme that struck me the most was the concept of a patient-prisoner. Garcia states: “Addicts assigned to the drug court system are dually and contradictorily marked; the addict/offender is patient and prisoner. The patient-prisoner experiences the weight of a double sentence- to recover and reckon.” The US legal system plays a direct role in the high rates of recidivism of drug addicts. Instead of providing truly helpful and meaningful resources for addiction, the system rather sends those suffering to prison. I learned a lot about this topic in my criminology class, specifically the war on drugs declared in the 80s and 90s. I’d be interested to read about how other countries with much better rehabilitation programs approach the problem of addiction and crime.
A small but relevant part of Garcia’s work, particularly to this class, is the fact that she began her research with a different intended focus than the final product. She states that she originally wanted to look at the experience of recovering addicts within the Evangelical Christian community. However, as she embarked on her research, she shifted the narrative toward state funded treatment centers. I think this shows the importance of being flexible with your original research question, and that sometimes the original conception will not give the optimal results. Although it may be a hassle to change, it will ultimately yield better results. This is encouraging to see as I am about to begin my own research, and very well might have to shift my focus, considering the sensitive nature of the subject.