The 12-step approach to recovery from alcohol and drug dependence: Test of a mediation model using a loss-gain paradigm
Abstract
The present study examined the relationship between AA/NA involvement and recovery from substance dependence using a loss-gain paradigm. Structural equation modeling was used to test a model using multidimensional measures of AA/NA involvement and recovery. AA/NA involvement was positively and significantly associated with recovery. As expected, perceived social support and spirituality were found to be mediators in the relationship between AA/NA involvement and recovery. However, the effects of spirituality diminished when other variables were controlled. Contrary to expectations, coping strategies was not a mediator in the relationship between AA/NA involvement and recovery. A significant finding was the positive association between perceptions of recovery-related gains vs. losses and recovery. Perceptions of gains vs. losses in recovery served as a mediator in the relationship between AA/NA involvement and recovery, as well as in the relationship between perceived social support and recovery. This finding has implications for practitioners who work with clients who are substance dependent. The findings from this study also have important implications for future research on the factors associated with recovery from substance dependence. Using the loss-gain paradigm outlined in this study as a guide, future researchers can continue to explore recovery using a loss-gain lens, providing further insight into how perceptions of gains vs. losses in recovery may be associated with recovery.
Degree
Ph.D.
Advisors
Servaty-Seib, Purdue University.
Subject Area
Social psychology|Clinical psychology|Health education
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