Although data exists within the literature on variables associated with substance use outcome within various forms of self-help treatments that have components of sponsorship or peer support [1,2], there is limited data on substance use outcome predictors when delivering empirically based treatment designed solely for peer support within community treatment settings. With the rise in adoption of utilizing peer support services in clinical settings that often have not been empirically tested, studies are needed to begin to understand what key components of the peer support treatments are associated with better outcome and whether or not the treatments afford greater benefits to certain subpopulations [3-6]. One of the more documented self-help treatment process variables associated with decreased substance use and abstinence is attendance. Individuals who attended Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) more often are more likely to maintain abstinence from alcohol than those who attended less frequently [7-10]. Similar findings occurred in Narcotics Anonymous (NA), where lower levels of alcohol use and marijuana use are reported with more consistent attendance [11,12].

However, engagement may also play a role, as those who frequently engage in 12-Step activities, but attend meetings inconsistently are shown to have better drug use outcomes than individuals who did not regularly engage in 12-Step activities, but attended consistently [13]. Additionally, individual characteristics may affect substance use outcomes in self-help interventions that include peer support. Individuals with substance use disorders and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) who attended AA more often are more likely to remain abstinent than those with only substance use disorders [14]. However, the type of co-occurring diagnoses may make a difference on outcome impact. Individuals who had depression and a substance use disorder have a weaker association between self-help involvement and abstinence than individuals with substance use disorders alone [15]. This was the impetus for the emergence of dually focused 12- Step programs, such as Double Trouble, which specifically address the needs of individuals with co-occurring disorders [16,17].

Citation: Tracy K, Guzman D, Burton M (2014) Treatment Process and Participant Characteristic Predictors of Substance Use Outcome in Mentorship for Addiction Problems (MAP). J Alcohol Drug Depend 2:171. doi: 10.4172/2329-6488.1000171

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