Predictors and By-Products of Participation in a Mutual Help Group for Adult Children of Alcoholics

Abstract

This prospective study examined correlates of participation in a mutual help group for 43 adult children of alcoholics (ACOAs). The mutual help group was based on A1-Anon guidelines and was delivered to the ACOAs during the first month that they were enrolled in a residential, substance abuse treatment program. Results indicated that age and self-esteem at baseline predicted level of participation in the mutual help group. In addition, level of participation in the group was associated with less relapse and more positive changes in status-based self-stigmatization and self-esteem at a six month follow-up assessment.

Key Words:

• Adult children of alcoholics
• mutual help group
• age
• self-esteem