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. 2009 Apr;6(4):1317-34.
doi: 10.3390/ijerph6041317. Epub 2009 Mar 31.

Latinos and Latinas in communal settings: a grounded theory of recovery

Josefina Alvarez  1 , Leonard A Jason, Margaret I Davis, Bradley D Olson, Joseph R Ferrari
Affiliations

Latinos and Latinas in communal settings: a grounded theory of recovery

Josefina Alvarez et al. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2009 Apr.

Abstract

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 12 Latino/a residents of a mutual help residential recovery program (Oxford House) in order to elicit their experiences of the program's therapeutic elements. A model of recovery emerged from the analysis including several themes supported by existing literature: personal motivation and readiness to change, mutual help, sober environment, social support, and accountability. Consistent with a broad conceptualization of recovery, outcomes included abstinence, new life skills, and increased self-esteem/sense of purpose. Most participants were the only Latino/a in their Houses; however, cultural differences did not emerge as salient issues. The study's findings highlight potential therapeutic aspects of mutual-help communal recovery programs and suggest that English-speaking, bicultural Latinos/as have positive experiences and may benefit from participating in these programs.

Keywords: Addiction; Grounded Theory; Latino/Latina; Recovery homes.

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Figures

Figure 1.
Figure 1.
Therapeutic Components of Oxford House.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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