Self -efficacy and spirituality in the recovery process from alcohol dependence: A paradox.

Literature in the field of addiction supports the importance of self-efficacy and spirituality in the process of recovery from addictive disorders. However, the research on self-efficacy and spirituality among alcohol dependent individuals has not addressed the specific relationship of these constructs throughout the recovery process. The current study provides an exploration of self-efficacy and spirituality as they relate to the recovery process from alcohol dependence. Data were collected from 81 adult (over age 18) clients who sought treatment at an outpatient drug and alcohol agency. Each client met the criteria for alcohol dependence based on DSM IV criteria, and was placed in one of four groups based on self-reported level of recovery (no treatment—assumed to be actively using alcohol, recent relapse, 3 months sobriety, and 6 months sobriety). The clients completed a demographic data sheet, the Situational Confidence Questionnaire—39 (SCQ-39), the Spiritual Well-Being Scale (SWBS), and the Spiritual Involvement and Beliefs Scale (SIBS). The results of this study suggest that self-efficacy and spirituality are related in the recovery process from alcoholism. The seemingly paradoxical relationship between these constructs can be explained through an understanding of the multidimensionality of spirituality. Self-efficacy was correlated with spirituality as it relates to one\u27s connectedness with others and the world (Existential Well-Being), as well as one\u27s involvement in spiritual actions/beliefs. In contrast, self-efficacy was not related to spirituality as it relates to one\u27s connectedness with God (Religious Well-Being). Religious Well-Being may account for the seemingly paradoxical relationship between self-efficacy and spirituality because it is the only aspect of spirituality related to surrender of control. The results also offer explanations for changes in self-efficacy and spirituality with regard to length of recovery. These findings have important implications for providers of drug and alcohol treatment. By recognizing the relationship between self-efficacy and spirituality, counselors can work to incorporate these constructs into treatment. Counselors could enhance a person\u27s self-efficacy through the use of spiritually oriented interventions. Counselors can expand on the traditional realm of spirituality in addiction treatment (Higher Power) through the inclusion of existential forms of spirituality (e.g. connectedness to self, others, and the world)