Narcotics anonymous

Abstract: Youth treatment programs frequently employ 12-Step concepts and encourage participation in Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA). Since AA/NA groups are easily accessible at no charge and provide flexible support at times of high relapse risk they hold promise as a treatment adjunct in an increasingly cost-constricting economic climate. Yet, due to concerns related to adolescents' developmental status, skepticism exists regarding the utility of AA/NA for youth. This review evaluates the empirical evidence in this regard, identifies and discusses knowledge gaps, and recommends areas for future research. Searches were conducted in PsychINFO, Medline, relevant literature and by personal correspondence. Findings suggest youth may benefit from AA/NA participation following treatment, but conclusions are limited by four important factors: (1) a small number of studies; (2) no studies with outpatients; (3) existing evidence is solely observational; and (4) only partial measurement of the 12-Step construct. While surveys of adolescent SUD treatment programs indicate widespread clinical interest and application of adult-derived 12-Step approaches this level of enthusiasm has not been reflected in the research community. Qualitative research is needed to improve our understanding of youth-specific AA/NA barriers, and efficacy, comparative effectiveness, and process studies are still needed to inform clinical practice guidelines for youth providers.

Abstract: Evidence from multiple lines of research supports the effectiveness and practical importance of Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous. Conference presenters discussed the relationship between 12-Step participation and abstinence among various populations, including adolescents, women, and urban drug users. Insight from the arts and humanities placed empirical findings in a holistic context.

Abstract: Although Narcotics Anonymous (NA) is the oldest and largest self-help group for the support of drug abusers, it has received little study. This paper provides an overview of the history, structure, philosophy, and activities of the NA fellowship based on interviews with members, a survey of the NA literature, and observation at a residential therapeutic community employing the NA approach. The latter data provide a means of analyzing the relationship between NA and those implementing its program. Suggestions for research are advanced in recognition of Narcotics Anonymous as both underground social movement and major treatment modality for drug abusers.

Abstract: We examined the relationship between involvement with three common social support activities and abstinence rates among former patients (N = 50) of an inpatient substance abuse treatment facility. Attendance at aftercare meetings and attendance at Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous meetings were significantly related to posttreatment abstinence, whereas family participation in recovery did not, by itself, significantly predict continued abstinence. Examining these factors together, we found that the abstinence rate increased linearly as more supports were used.