Social anxiety and communal living: the influence of social anxiety on men and women in substance abuse recovery homes

Abstract

Few studies examined the relationship between substance use and social anxiety among individuals who are in substance abuse recovery. This study examined social anxiety as a predictor of substance use among a sample of adults randomised to a sober-living home (n = 75) versus usual aftercare (n = 75). It was expected that high levels of social anxiety would reduce the length of stay in the sober-living home and negatively influence participation in self-help groups. Results suggested that social anxiety was a significant predictor of relapse at one time point and decreased the likelihood for remaining in a sober-living house for 6 months or more. No significant relationship between social anxiety and participation in self-help groups were found. Implications for further research and substance abuse treatment are discussed.

• Social anxiety
• Oxford House
• mutual help
• gender