involvement with pro-drinking social ties, but also by increasing exposure to, and involvement with pro-abstinent social ties. One of the potential “downstream” mechanisms by which such changes may decrease relapse risk is by reducing or eradicating exposure to alcohol related cues, thereby reducing craving, while simultaneously allowing or encouraging individuals to experience new social connections that are potentially rewarding and help reinforce recovery. AA appears to be an influential community resource that is able to effectively mobilize adaptive social changes that, in turn, enhance the chances for recovery from alcohol use disorder.
