Oxford House and Alcoholics Anonymous: The Impact of Two Mutual-Help Models on Abstinence

Abstract

Two examples of mutual-help approaches for substance abuse recovery are 12-step groups (AA and NA) and Oxford House. The present study examined the combined effects of AA and Oxford House residence on abstinence over a 24-month period, with 150 individuals randomly assigned to either an Oxford House or to usual aftercare. Among individuals with high 12-step involvement, the addition of Oxford House residence significantly increased the odds of abstinence (87.5% vs. 52.9%). However, among participants with low 12-step involvement, rates of abstinence were fairly similar across conditions (31.4% vs. 21.2%). Results suggested that the joint effectiveness of these mutual-help programs may promote abstinence.

KEYWORDS:

• substance abuse treatment
• 12-step groups
• Oxford House

The authors appreciate the financial support from the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (grant number AA12218).

Notes

∗p ≤ .05

∗∗p ≤ .01

∗p ≤ .001