Exploring the Recurrence of Hazardous Drinking in Alcohol Use Disorders Through the Lens of the Theory of Planned Behavior: A Qualitative Study in China

Aim: This study aimed to explore the experiences of alcohol cessation, recurrence of hazardous drinking, and prevention of such recurrence among Chinese individuals with alcohol use disorder (AUD), grounded in the theory of planned behavior. Design: A qualitative phenomenological study was adopted, with the theory of planned behavior as the theoretical framework to guide the exploration and thematic analysis of participants’ subjective experiences. Methods: Using purposive sampling, this study enrolled 11 Chinese male inpatients diagnosed with AUD and characterized by persistent harmful drinking. Insights were gathered via semi-structured interviews, followed by data analysis using Colaizzi’s phenomenological approach. Results: Three primary themes emerged: (1) attitude (relief of negative emotions, tolerant views toward drinking in social contexts, and mental conflict); (2) subjective norms (family members’ passive acceptance, Chinese drinking culture, peer influence, and information support from medical authorities); (3) perceived behavioral control (insufficient self-efficacy, limited treatment resources, and lack of emotional support). Conclusion: Findings reveal that AUD individuals’ decision toward drinking recurrence is shaped by their behavioral beliefs, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control. Thus, culturally sensitive care from mental health nurses, tailored family involvement, and targeted health education are critical to enhancing patients’ self-efficacy and supporting their recovery.