{"title":"The “Imagined Recovery Community”: A Conceptualization of the Recovery Community","authors":"T. Parkman, C. Lloyd","doi":"10.1080/1556035X.2015.1132399","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/1556035X.2015.1132399","url":null,"abstract":"ABSTRACT In recent years the concept of the “recovery community” has gained considerable momentum in both the academic literature, as well as government policy. Despite this, there remains a lack of understanding of the recovery community. This is a theoretical article designed to provide our conceptualization of the recovery community. Drawing on Anderson's “imagined communities,” and MacMillan and Chavis's “sense of community,” the authors propose that the recovery community can be perceived as “imagined.” A key component of our conceptualization is language, and the power it has to unlock, and shape, the cultural beliefs of people in recovery from substance dependency, regardless of their location. The implications of this article are that it further sparks debate into how we perceive people in recovery, as well as providing a platform that will continue to fuel the enthusiasm already behind the recovery community.","PeriodicalId":88011,"journal":{"name":"Journal of groups in addiction & recovery","volume":"18 1","pages":"125 - 136"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2016-04-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://sci-hub-pdf.com/10.1080/1556035X.2015.1132399","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"60039820","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"A Hundred Flowers","authors":"J. Krejci","doi":"10.1080/1556035X.2016.1166009","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/1556035X.2016.1166009","url":null,"abstract":"It is not every day that one is inspired to turn to the work of Chairman Mao when discussing the status of addiction treatment. On the other hand, these are not ordinary times. When addiction treatment in the United States was in its infancy, one philosophy predominated. Treatment centers were staffed almost exclusively by those in recovery, whose experience of personal redemption through immersion in self-help programs inspired them to promote the philosophy of Twelve Steps. With little empirical research to guide the field, a consensus emerged that there was one way, and only one way, to recover: by practicing the principles of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) “in all our affairs.” This, in turn, led to a zealousness that soon morphed into dogmatism; a “one size fits all” rigid insistence that any treatment approach not firmly grounded in Twelve Step principles and attendance at Twelve Step meetings was doomed to fail; that clients who could not find it in themselves to embrace the philosophies of AA and NA were in need of aggressive confrontation to break through the wall of denial; and that those who used medications responsibly to treat comorbid psychiatric conditions were violating the fundamental tenet of abstinence. Interestingly, this was not the case in other countries, who from the start embraced a more eclectic approach to treatment. Nor was it consistent with Twelve Step literature, which urged recovering members to inspire others through their experience, strength and hope, and which understood that aggressive persuasion would only undermine internal motivation. In the words of the AA Big Book, “When a man is presented with this volume, it is best that no one tell him he must abide by its suggestions. The man must decide for himself ” (p. 144). Many things have changed. The workforce has become increasingly professionalized. A wealth of outcome studies have convincingly demonstrated the efficacy of other approaches, such as Motivational Interviewing and Cognitive-Behavioral therapies, and have documented the fact that many who recover do so without any treatment or Twelve Step involvement whatsoever. There is no question that a commitment to science and critical inquiry has broadened the field and brought it into the mainstream in a way that can only be healthy for the field and for our clients. However, we are now at a point where a new orthodoxy is threatening to prevail. Professional organizations are amassing lists and registries of evidence-based","PeriodicalId":88011,"journal":{"name":"Journal of groups in addiction & recovery","volume":"11 1","pages":"73 - 75"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2016-04-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://sci-hub-pdf.com/10.1080/1556035X.2016.1166009","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"60040341","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"An Evaluation of the Mutual Aid Facilitation Sessions Pilot Program, “You do the MAFS”","authors":"Laura Aslan, T. Parkman, Nina Skagerlind","doi":"10.1080/1556035X.2016.1153441","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/1556035X.2016.1153441","url":null,"abstract":"ABSTRACT Although recovery has gained considerable momentum in recent years, pathways into recovery programs are less understood. “You do the MAFS” is a 6-session, peer-led group that educates service users about abstinence-based recovery and provides a gateway into mutual aid. Through a mixed methodological approach, this study found that attendance at “You do the MAFS” improved participant health and social functioning, increased mutual aid attendance and reduced substance use. An intervention such as this would be a useful addition to the substance misuse treatment sector as provision to make links to and increase support for those in recovery.","PeriodicalId":88011,"journal":{"name":"Journal of groups in addiction & recovery","volume":"66 1","pages":"109 - 124"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2016-04-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://sci-hub-pdf.com/10.1080/1556035X.2016.1153441","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"60040754","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Understanding the Role of Group Cohesion and Group Alliance in a Secular Peer Support Group for Recovery from Substance Misuse","authors":"A. Sotskova, Erica M. Woodin, K. S. Cyr","doi":"10.1080/1556035X.2015.1132400","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/1556035X.2015.1132400","url":null,"abstract":"ABSTRACT This study aimed to understand the role of group cohesion and alliance in LifeRing, a secular peer support group for substance misuse. Correlational analyses of quantitative data and content analysis of qualitative data from 50 participants assessed (a) the relationship between group cohesion, alliance with the meeting convenor, and active participation in the group; (b) the associations among group cohesion, alliance with the meeting convenor, and satisfaction with the group; and (c) what participants found helpful about LifeRing. Group cohesion was significantly associated with active group participation while convenor alliance was significantly associated with group satisfaction.","PeriodicalId":88011,"journal":{"name":"Journal of groups in addiction & recovery","volume":"11 1","pages":"137 - 154"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2016-04-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://sci-hub-pdf.com/10.1080/1556035X.2015.1132400","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"60040070","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Patricia E. Penn, D. Brooke, A. Brooks, S. Gallagher, Allison D. Barnard
{"title":"Co-Occurring Conditions Clients and Counselors Compare 12-Step and Smart Recovery Mutual Help","authors":"Patricia E. Penn, D. Brooke, A. Brooks, S. Gallagher, Allison D. Barnard","doi":"10.1080/1556035X.2015.1104643","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/1556035X.2015.1104643","url":null,"abstract":"ABSTRACT There are few published accounts describing the perspectives of persons with co-occurring conditions (CC) of serious mental illness and substance use disorders, despite the high prevalence of CC. Two focus groups were conducted with CC clients (n = 12) and counselors (n = 7) who had experience with two common types of mutual-help meetings: 12-step meetings and Self-Management and Recovery Training (SMART) Recovery®. In both groups, there were positive comments about both modalities, but there were relatively more negative comments about 12-step programs. Many positive comments related to the experience of being in a meeting, regardless of modality. The results suggest that persons with CC who are currently in treatment generally respond better to SMART Recovery than to 12-step mutual-help meetings.","PeriodicalId":88011,"journal":{"name":"Journal of groups in addiction & recovery","volume":"11 1","pages":"76 - 92"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2016-03-11","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://sci-hub-pdf.com/10.1080/1556035X.2015.1104643","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"60040149","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"A Qualitative Evaluation of the Phoenix Futures Recovery Through Nature Program: A Therapeutic Intervention for Substance Misuse","authors":"Laura Aslan","doi":"10.1080/1556035X.2015.1110741","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/1556035X.2015.1110741","url":null,"abstract":"ABSTRACT The Phoenix Futures Recovery Through Nature (RtN) Program aids recovery from substance misuse through being out in a natural environment and focusing on a task, and working as a therapeutic community group to achieve it. This study set out to establish how RtN works. Findings were that the fundamental aspects of RtN—the activity, natural environment, and relationships—were key to driving changes experienced by participants; however, there were other, more subtle physical and psychological processes at play. Conclusions are that RtN is well placed to tackle addiction and should be nurtured and shared within the substance misuse community.","PeriodicalId":88011,"journal":{"name":"Journal of groups in addiction & recovery","volume":"11 1","pages":"108 - 93"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2016-03-11","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://sci-hub-pdf.com/10.1080/1556035X.2015.1110741","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"60040248","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
F. Garcia, A. Assumpção, L. Malloy-Diniz, André A de Freitas, H. Delavenne, F. Thibaut
{"title":"A Comprehensive Review of Psychotherapeutic Treatment of Sexual Addiction","authors":"F. Garcia, A. Assumpção, L. Malloy-Diniz, André A de Freitas, H. Delavenne, F. Thibaut","doi":"10.1080/1556035X.2015.1066726","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/1556035X.2015.1066726","url":null,"abstract":"ABSTRACT Psychotherapeutic treatment, alone or in association with pharmacotherapy, has been reported as effective for the treatment of distress and to relieve sexual addiction-associated symptoms such as shame, depression, and anxiety. In this article, the authors review the current literature on psychotherapeutic treatment of sexual addiction. Different psychotherapeutic approaches for the treatment of patients with sexual addiction have been described. Current evidence on efficacy, efficiency and security of psychotherapeutic treatment of sexual addiction is insufficient to guide clinicians in terms of the best techniques and the most appropriate duration of treatment. Evidence is based on uncontrolled studies and case reports. Further research concerning the efficacy and effectiveness of psychotherapeutic approaches for the treatment of sexual addiction is warranted.","PeriodicalId":88011,"journal":{"name":"Journal of groups in addiction & recovery","volume":"11 1","pages":"59 - 71"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2016-01-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://sci-hub-pdf.com/10.1080/1556035X.2015.1066726","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"60039556","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"‘A New Way to Live My Life’: How Al-Anon Influences Resilience: A Qualitative Account","authors":"Brid Corrigan","doi":"10.1080/1556035X.2015.1110740","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/1556035X.2015.1110740","url":null,"abstract":"ABSTRACT Alcoholism can have deep and enduring negative outcomes for the close relatives of problem drinkers. This qualitative study explored Al-Anon's (a 12-step mutual-help group for relatives) role in enhancing resilience among its members. Data from 2 focus groups (n = 5 and n = 3, respectively) and 2 individual interviews were analyzed using interpretative phenomenological analysis. Participants described increased positive adaptation in terms of personal growth and enhanced functioning. The findings indicated that Al-Anon plays a role in fostering resilience among members by providing protective factors. The implications were discussed in the context of bolstering clinical interventions.","PeriodicalId":88011,"journal":{"name":"Journal of groups in addiction & recovery","volume":"7 1","pages":"42 - 58"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2016-01-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://sci-hub-pdf.com/10.1080/1556035X.2015.1110740","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"60040205","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Spencer D. Bradshaw, Sterling T. Shumway, Eugene W. Wang, K. Harris, Douglas B. Smith, Heather Austin-Robillard
{"title":"Family Functioning and Readiness in Family Recovery From Addiction","authors":"Spencer D. Bradshaw, Sterling T. Shumway, Eugene W. Wang, K. Harris, Douglas B. Smith, Heather Austin-Robillard","doi":"10.1080/1556035X.2015.1104644","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/1556035X.2015.1104644","url":null,"abstract":"ABSTRACT Unhealthy family dynamics often develop in families where addiction is present and negatively impact individual and family health. Family members becoming ready to make personal changes might positively impact family functioning and improve family support. More research is needed to examine this relationship in family recovery. Using structural equation modeling, family member readiness to change and family functioning over time were examined. Readiness and family functioning were positively and reciprocally associated with each other across 2 assessment points. Gender was associated with initial readiness to change and family functioning. Individual readiness to change may enhance family functioning and promote recovery-oriented changes for each family member.","PeriodicalId":88011,"journal":{"name":"Journal of groups in addiction & recovery","volume":"11 1","pages":"21 - 41"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2016-01-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://sci-hub-pdf.com/10.1080/1556035X.2015.1104644","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"60040193","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
M. Gatta, L. Svanellini, C. Rotondo, Salis Maurizio, S. Schiff, E. Ferruzza
{"title":"Focus Groups in the Prevention of Teenagers’ Alcohol Misuse","authors":"M. Gatta, L. Svanellini, C. Rotondo, Salis Maurizio, S. Schiff, E. Ferruzza","doi":"10.1080/1556035X.2015.1099491","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/1556035X.2015.1099491","url":null,"abstract":"ABSTRACT The present study assessed the efficacy of focus groups (FGs) used as part of a prevention-action project targeting students in their first and second years of Italian high school (9th and 10th graders). A sample of 661 students was randomly divided into an experimental group participating in an FG activity and a control group only attending a brief informative meeting. Two questionnaires were administered to measure alcohol consumption and any psychopathological vulnerability, respectively, with test–retest modality. Among the most important results, 52.4% of students drank alcoholic beverages on Saturday evenings and this consumption increased with age; in addition, alcohol consumption was associated with psychobehavioral problems of the externalizing type. The FGs proved effective in reducing the known tendency for alcohol consumption to increase with age, in terms of both the frequency of ingestion of alcoholic beverages and the quantity of alcohol involved.","PeriodicalId":88011,"journal":{"name":"Journal of groups in addiction & recovery","volume":"11 1","pages":"20 - 3"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2016-01-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://sci-hub-pdf.com/10.1080/1556035X.2015.1099491","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"60039380","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}