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In 12-step groups, helping helps the helper
Sarah E Zemore1, Lee Ann Kaskutas, Lyndsay N Ammon
1Alcohol Research Group, Berkeley, CA 94709-2176, USA. szemore@arg.org
Addiction (Abingdon, England)
|July 22, 2004
Summary
Helping others in treatment for alcohol and drug problems supports the helper therapy principle. This study shows that helping predicts 12-step involvement, which is key for sustained recovery.
Area of Science:
- Addiction research
- Psychology
- Sociology
Background:
- The helper therapy principle posits that aiding others in mutual-help groups facilitates self-help.
- Mutual-help groups are integral to recovery for individuals with alcohol and drug problems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if clients in alcohol and drug treatment benefit from helping others.
- To examine the relationship between helping behaviors and 12-step involvement during treatment.
Main Methods:
- Longitudinal study of 279 individuals with alcohol and/or drug dependence undergoing day treatment.
- A helping checklist assessed participant helping behaviors; 12-step involvement and substance use were measured at baseline and 6-month follow-up.
Main Results:
- Helping behaviors positively predicted subsequent 12-step involvement.
- While 12-step involvement predicted overall abstinence, helping during treatment was linked to reduced binge drinking among those still consuming substances.
- Both helping and 12-step involvement were significant predictors of treatment outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Findings support the helper therapy principle in the context of addiction treatment.
- Helping behaviors can facilitate engagement with 12-step programs, a crucial component of recovery.
- The study clarifies the mechanisms through which helping influences recovery and 12-step affiliation.