Mindfulness Based Relapse Prevention and the matrix model in substance abuse relapse prevention

Mindfulness Based Relapse Prevention, a standardized program developed at the University of Washington, has recently been introduced as an intervention in substance abuse with some success in incarcerated populations. The matrix model, a multicomponent, contingency management approach, has been used in substance abuse clinics since the 1980s and has been shown effective in relapse prevention. Previous research has indicated that there have been no studies of Mindfulness Based Relapse Prevention combined with traditional substance abuse approaches such as the matrix model. A gap in the literature therefore exists in terms of how mindfulness meditation can be applied in substance abuse and what factors are most important in maintaining sobriety. An experimental study was conducted to determine if Mindfulness Based Relapse Prevention, when added to a standard program such as the matrix model, could make a significant difference in client outcomes. Sixty-six individuals in early stages of recovery participated in the study conducted at a substance abuse clinic in a major metropolitan area in the United States. The Mindfulness Based Relapse Prevention program was used as the independent variable. Four dependent variables included coping skills, measured by the Alcohol Abuse Coping Response Inventory, motivation, measured by the Stages of Change Scale, attendance, measured by attendance records, and abstinence, measured by toxicology results from client charts. Results of a pretest-posttest ANCOVA indicated that Mindfulness Based Relapse Prevention resulted in statistically significant improvements in attendance and abstinence. Implications for social change include the ability to offer more effective alternatives in the treatment of alcohol and drug addiction.