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01-12-2012 | Original Paper

A Christian Faith-Based Recovery Theory: Understanding God as Sponsor

Author: Shirley M. Timmons

Published in: Journal of Religion and Health | Issue 4/2012

Abstract

This article reports the development of a substantive theory to explain an evangelical Christian-based process of recovery from addiction. Faith-based, 12-step, mutual aid programs can improve drug abstinence by offering: (a) an intervention option alone and/or in conjunction with secular programs and (b) an opportunity for religious involvement. Although literature on religion, spirituality, and addiction is voluminous, traditional 12-step programs fail to explain the mechanism that underpins the process of Christian-based recovery (CR). This pilot study used grounded theory to explore and describe the essence of recovery of 10 former crack cocaine-addicted persons voluntarily enrolled in a CR program. Data were collected from in-depth interviews during 4 months of 2008. Audiotapes were transcribed verbatim, and the constant comparative method was used to analyze data resulting in the basic social process theory, understanding God as sponsor. The theory was determined through writing theoretical memos that generated key elements that allow persons to recover: acknowledging God-centered crises, communicating with God, and planning for the future. Findings from this preliminary study identifies important factors that can help persons in recovery to sustain sobriety and program administrators to benefit from theory that guides the development of evidence-based addiction interventions.

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Title: A Christian Faith-Based Recovery Theory: Understanding God as Sponsor
Author: Shirley M. Timmons
Publication date: 01-12-2012
Publisher: Springer US
Published in: Journal of Religion and Health / Issue 4/2012
Print ISSN: 0022-4197
Electronic ISSN: 1573-6571
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10943-010-9422-z

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

A Christian Faith-Based Recovery Theory: Understanding God as Sponsor

Abstract

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

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