Discussion Guide

Rise stories can help you start discussions in support groups and parenting classes. If you are a parent advocate or work with parents in a group setting, have your group read the story out loud and use the questions below to guide a discussion.

December 2007 Story:
‘Identity Crisis' by Lynne Miller

SUMMMARY:
After she recovers from a drug addiction and reunites with her son, Lynne is hired as a Parent Advocate at her foster care agency, helping other parents reunify with their children. When her position is cut, Lynne fears that, without the sense of belonging and strength she got from her job, she won’t be able to remain a sober, stable parent.

This is a good story to read with parents who are in recovery.

DISCUSSION:
Begin by asking the group’s general impression of what they read. How did the story affect them? What stood out for them the most? From their responses, you can lead the discussion where parents are interested in taking it.

Here are some questions you might pose to your group:

  • Throughout her life, Lynne felt like an outsider, and says that “blending in to a crowd without really joining a group was a survival skill that I developed to keep myself safe.” How does this coping skill help Lynne and how does it have a negative impact at times? What “survival skills” did you learn growing up? How do they help you and when don’t they work as well?

  • Lynne writes that her job made her feel like a good person and she felt lost and worthless when her position was cut. What was a time in your life where a sudden loss or change made you feel unsure of who you were?

  • Lynne writes, “Sometimes when you are recovering from an addiction, your perceptions are kind of warped. You start out thinking you are nothing and then when you come back to the “real world,” your self-worth is based on what you can accomplish, not just on being who you are.” How do you think your addiction and your process of recovery have affected your idea of who you are? What qualities do you value in yourself?
  • For Lynne, a sense of truly belonging to a group was an important part of rebuilding her life, and she finds a sense of community in unexpected places. What risks does she take that help her build a stronger base in her life? What gives you a sense of strength in your life? What risks have you taken or could you take to build that for yourself?

  • Even though Lynne’s friends say she’s crazy to get her job back, her perseverance works out. What qualities helped Lynne succeed? What strengths are helping you move forward in life now?

Finally, the group can discuss what they learned from the story and what parts they related to the most. What steps or insights that Lynne describes surprise them or might help them through similar setbacks?

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