Medical versus Spiritual Orientations: Differential Patient Views toward Recovery

Abstract

Background: Relapse among patients in substance abuse treatment has generated interest in identifying attitudinal factors that sustain recovery. Objective: To assess the relationship of attitudes toward approaches to motivation for treatment and Twelve Step beliefs. Methods: Dually diagnosed patients (N = 100) completed a survey assessing treatment attitudes, motivation, and Twelve Step beliefs. Results: Endorsement of medical services was positively correlated with motivation but unrelated to Twelve Step beliefs. Endorsement of religious services was unrelated to motivation but was associated with Twelve Step beliefs. Conclusions: Patients may have differing perceptions regarding routes to recovery based on preferences for professional services or spiritual resources.

Keywords:

• Motivation for change
• recovery attitudes
• spirituality
• Twelve Step groups