Correlates of participation in peer recovery support groups as well as voluntary and mandated substance abuse treatment among rural and urban probationers

Abstract

This study explores the correlates of probationers’ participation in 12-step programs, voluntary treatment, and mandated treatment, with respect to the geographic location of where the services are being provided as the primary covariate of interest. Data were derived from face-to-face interviews with rural and urban probationers (n=1464). Results of the three logistic regression models suggested that even when all the covariates are taken into account, urban probationers were significantly more likely to have been involved in 12-step programs, voluntary treatment, and mandated treatment over their lifespan. Despite high levels of self-reported substance use among all participants, treatment services were underutilized by rural probationers. These data suggest that individuals residing in rural communities may face additional barriers to receiving treatment services and that criminal involvement is associated with participation in peer recovery support groups and treatment. Future studies can investigate criminal involvement as an avenue to enhance recovery as well as how to overcome treatment barriers in rural areas.

John Henryism Active Coping as a Cultural Correlate of Substance Abuse Treatment Participation Among African American Women

“…For example, Oser and colleagues (2012) noted having a high school diploma increased the likelihood of voluntarily attending treatment by 69% in a sample of urban and rural probationers. In contrast, the inability to pay and lack of insurance was the primary reason cited for not receiving substance use treatment among a national representative sample of illicit drug users (SAMHSA, 2013).…”

Men and Women Who Attend Al-Anon: Gender Differences in Reasons for Attendance, Health Status and Personal Functioning, and Drinker Characteristics

“…However, more men lived in urban areas, suggesting that men in these areas may be more open to seeking help from Al-Anon. Indeed, rural populations tend to underuse 12-step services, possi-bly due to the limited services available in these areas, or the decreased anonymity (Oser, Harp, O'Connell, Martin, & Leukefeld, 2012). Additionally, men in rural areas are less likely to seek help and experience more stigma about seeking help (Hammer, Vogel, & Heimerdinger-Edwards, 2013).…”

Harm Reduction Treatment Interventions for Rural Methamphetamine Abuse

“…Meth runs an especially high risk of abuse and even dependence, which makes it dangerous to those who choose to experiment with it [16]. Rural populations do not have treatment options available for meth abuse like urban settings [17]. Simons et al [8] suggested that 32% of substance abuse treatment admissions among 18-25 year olds are in rural counties and 26% are among urban counties [2].…”

“…Using substances or being arrested for a drug-related offense significantly increases recidivism rates. Individuals on probation were found to be twice as likely to use illicit substances [17]. This is likely because individuals who are released from prison and/or jail have a more difficult time transitioning back into society with stigma behind their offense, difficulty meeting their needs due to availability, and peer pressure from their previous social crowd.…”

“…Along with needle exchange programs, other services and programs should be offered such as Meth Anonymous (MA) [17,25].This would offer monumental support to the criminal offender and to individuals who find group support effective. Counseling services should be made available for those who would like to utilize them.…”