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Abstract
ABSTRACT. Background: 12-Step Facilitation (TSF) interventions designed to enhance rates of engagement with 12-step mutual-help organizations (MHOs) have shown efficacy among adults, but research provides little guidance on how to adapt TSF strategies for young people. Methods: To inform TSF strategies for youth, this study used qualitative methods to investigate the self-reported experiences of 12-step participation, and reasons for nonattendance and discontinuation among young adults (18–24 years; N = 302). Responses to open-ended questions following residential treatment were coded into rationally derived domains. Results: Young adults reported that cohesiveness, belonging, and instillation of hope were the most helpful aspects of attending 12-step groups; meeting structure and having to motivate oneself to attend meetings were the most common aspects young adults liked least; logistical barriers and low recovery motivation and interest were the most common reasons for discontinued attendance; and perceptions that one did not have a problem or needed treatment were cited most often as reasons for never attending. Conclusions: Findings may inform and enhance strategies intended to engage young people with community-based recovery-focused 12-step MHOs and ultimately improve recovery outcomes.
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
The authors would like to thank Ms. Julie Yeterian, Ms. Claire Greene, and Ms. Julie Cristello for their help in preparation of the manuscript.
FUNDING
This research was supported by grant funding from the National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (R21AA018185-02) and by anonymous donations to the Hazelden Foundation. Funding agencies were not involved in any aspect of research design, execution, or interpretation. All opinions and conclusions expressed herein are those of the authors and not the funding agencies.
SUPPLEMENTAL MATERIALS
Supplemental data for this article can be accessed on the publisher's website (http://www.dx.doi.org/10.1080/08897077.2014.950001)
AUTHOR CONTRIBUTIONS
Authors Labbe and Kelly designed the study. Author Labbe managed the literature searches and summaries of previous related work. Authors Labbe and Kelly undertook the qualitative analyses. Authors Labbe and Kelly wrote the first drafts of the manuscript. All authors contributed to and have approved the final manuscript.