Sober Living Houses for Substance Abusing Offenders

Lack of a stable, alcohol- and drug-free living environment for criminal justice offenders is a major obstacle to successful community re-entry. In California, two-thirds of parolees released from state prisons are re-incarcerated within 3 years, resulting in hazardous prison overcrowding. This study evaluated sober living houses (SLHs) as a recovery option for criminal justice offenders. SLHs are alcohol- and drug-free living environments for individuals attempting to establish or maintain sobriety. They are financed primarily through resident fees and individuals can stay as long as they wish. A peer oriented model of recovery is emphasized and attendance at mutual help groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous is mandated or strongly encouraged. We compared outcomes for 71 SLH residents referred from the criminal justice system (58% white, 86% male) with outcomes for 172 other residents (78% white and 74% male). Generalized Estimating Equations compared baseline measures with 6-, 12-, and 18-month follow up for both groups. Relative to their pre-baseline functioning, criminal justice offenders showed significant longitudinal improvement on measures of substance use, arrests, and work. On most measures, criminal justice referred residents had similar outcomes to those not referred from the criminal justice system. However, criminal justice offenders had lower engagement in 12-step groups, significantly more difficulty finding and maintaining employment, and higher arrest rates. Results suggest that SLHs should be considered as a viable option for substance abuse offenders in need of housing, but they may need additional assistance to engage in 12-step groups, find work, and avoid re-arrests.