Maximizing Social Model Principles in Residential Recovery Settings
Douglas L. Polcin, Ed.D.1, Amy Mericle, Ph.D.1, Jason Howell, MBA, PRS2, Dave Sheridan3, and Jeff Christensen, B.S.3
Douglas L. Polcin: dpolcin@arg.org
1Alcohol Research Group, Public Health Institute, 6475 Christie Avenue, Suite 400, Emeryville,
CA 94608-1010, Phone (510) 597-3440 extension 277, Fax (510) 985-6459
2National Alliance of Recovery Residences
3Sober Living Network
Abstract
Peer support is integral to a variety of approaches to alcohol and drug problems. However, there is
limited information about the best ways to facilitate it. The “social model” approach developed in
California offers useful suggestions for facilitating peer support in residential recovery settings.
Key principles include using 12-step or other mutual help group strategies to create and facilitate a
recovery environment, involving program participants in decision making and facility governance,
using personal recovery experience as a way to help others, and emphasizing recovery as an
interaction between the individual and their environment. Although limited in number, studies
have shown favorable outcomes for social model programs. Knowledge about social model
recovery and how to use it to facilitate peer support in residential recovery homes varies among
providers. This paper presents specific, practical suggestions for enhancing social model principles
in ways that facilitate peer support in a range of recovery residences.
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