History of Physical or Sexual Abuse and Participation in 12-Step Self-Help Groups

Abstract

Objectives: Although 12-step groups are an important resource for managing substance use problems, their efficacy for patients with a physical or sexual abuse history is unknown. Methods: In the present study, patients with a history of physical or sexual (n = 122) or no (n = 143) abuse were interviewed at entry to outpatient substance use treatment at the Veterans Administration. Results: After adjusting for baseline substance use, physical or sexual abuse was associated with more attendance at and involvement in 12-step groups. Participation in 12-step groups predicted abstinence at one year, regardless of abuse history. Conclusions: Limitations and implications are discussed.

Keywords:

• Alcohol abuse
• drug abuse
• physical abuse
• self-help groups
• sexual abuse
• 12-step programs