'A New Way to Live My Life': How Al-Anon Influences Resilience: A Qualitative Account. Issue 1 (2nd January 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Corrigan, Brid
• Is Part Of: Journal of groups in addiction & recovery. Volume 11:Issue 1(2016)
• Page Start: 42
• Page End: 58
• Publication Date: 2016-01-02
• Subjects: Al-Anon -- resilience -- mutual-help groups; Substance abuse -- Treatment -- Periodicals; Group psychotherapy -- Periodicals; 616.86
• DOI: 10.1080/1556035X.2015.1110740
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1556-035X

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Alcoholism can have deep and enduring negative outcomes for the close relatives of problem drinkers. This qualitative study explored Al-Anon's (a 12-step mutual-help group for relatives) role in enhancing resilience among its members. Data from 2 focus groups ( n = 5 and n = 3, respectively) and 2 individual interviews were analyzed using interpretative phenomenological analysis. Participants described increased positive adaptation in terms of personal growth and enhanced functioning. The findings indicated that Al-Anon plays a role in fostering resilience among members by providing protective factors. The implications were discussed in the context of bolstering clinical interventions.