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Schneider R, Burnette M, Timko C. History of physical or sexual abuse and participation in 12-step self-help groups. The American journal of drug and alcohol abuse. 2008 Jan 1; 34(5):617-25.
OBJECTIVES: Although 12-step groups are an important resource for managing substance use problems, their efficacy for patients with a physical or sexual abuse history is unknown. METHODS: In the present study, patients with a history of physical or sexual (n = 122) or no (n = 143) abuse were interviewed at entry to outpatient substance use treatment at the Veterans Administration. RESULTS: After adjusting for baseline substance use, physical or sexual abuse was associated with more attendance at and involvement in 12-step groups. Participation in 12-step groups predicted abstinence at one year, regardless of abuse history. CONCLUSIONS: Limitations and implications are discussed.