Evaluation of a residential program using the Addiction Severity Index and stages of change

Abstract

Fifty six individuals admitted to Recovery Acres (a thirty five bed male residential recovery program/half way house) were evaluated using the Addiction Severity Index (ASI) and Socrates, an instrument designed to measure stage of change. Composite scores obtained from the ASI indicated that major problems were present in the areas of employment, alcohol, family/social, and emotional functioning. Stages of Change revealed 27% to be in preparation, 67% action, and 6% in maintenance. Patients left Recovery Acres either through relapse, or to follow a non-residential program. Follow-up of 26 cases revealed that residents showed statistically significant improvement in areas of alcohol, drug, family/social and emotional problems. Employment, medical, and legal problems as identified by the ASI composite score were significant indicators of negative outcome. Employment still remained a problem three months after admission for most residents. Stage of Change did not predict outcome in terms of abstinence or residential status.