Work

Challenges and Rewards of Conducting Research on Recovery Residences for Alcohol and Drug Disorders

Year: 2015

Type: article

Abstract: Although research shows treatment for alcohol and drug problems can be effective, persons without stable housing that supports recovery are at risk for relapse. Recovery residences (RRs) for drug and alcohol problems are a growing response to the need for alcohol- and drug-free living environments that support sustained recovery. Research on RRs offers an opportunity to examine how integration of these individuals into a supportive, empowering environment has beneficial impacts on substance use, housing, and other outcomes, as well as benefits for the surrounding community. Research can also lead to the identification of operations and practices within houses that maximize favorable outcomes for residents. However, research on RRs also presents significant obstacles and challenges. Based on our experiences conducting recovery home research for decades, we present suggestions for addressing some of the unique challenges encountered in this type of research.

Source: Journal of Drug Issues

DOI: 10.1177/0022042615616432

Authors: Douglas L. Polcin, Amy A. Mericle, Sarah Callahan, Ronald Harvey, Leonard A. Jason

Institutions: Public Health Institute, DePaul University

Language: English

Topic: Substance Abuse Treatment and Outcomes

Subfield: Epidemiology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Sustainable cities and communities

Open Access status: green

Funder: National Institute on Drug Abuse