Young Adult Male Satisfaction with Drug & Alcohol Rehabilitation Facilities: Interior Design Implications

The purpose of the study was to determine young adult male patient satisfaction with the interior environment of three different in-patient drug and alcohol rehabilitation facilities located in the Midwest: (A) a renovated Elk's Club; (B) a hospital wing; and (C) a facility specifically built for drug and alcohol treatment. The sample consisted of 18 young adult male patients receiving treatment in the three designated facilities. Questionnaires and daily record charts were the methods for collecting data. The findings showed that satisfaction with interior space declined over the four-week treatment period for the majority of patients at all three facilities. Familiar posters/wall hangings, plants, photographs and collectibles were consistently reported by the patients as most missed items from where they last lived. Other most missed items were: own bed, easy chair, sports equipment, sofa, refrigerator, and pets. A design recommendation would b to add some of these types of objects, where feasible, particularly in the bedroom, during recovery. The patients from all those facilities requested more sports and exercise equipment and facilities.