Related to this, a distinct feature of AA is the opportunity to change one’s social networks to include more non-drinkers. Research has consistently demonstrated a significant relationship between sober social networks and alcohol outcomes (Bond et al., 2003; Delucchi and Kaskutas, 2010; Delucchi et al., 2004; Humphreys et al., 1999; Kaskutas et al., 2002; Matzger et al., 2004; Timko et al., 2005; Weisner et al., 2003a; Weisner et al., 2003b). Having an AA sponsor may be an important way in which sober people are introduced and begin to change their social network. Future research needs to be conducted to assess the mechanisms for which AA may impact sobriety and whether engagement in AA including having a sponsor to talk to when facing difficult times or whether other characteristics such as the number of meetings one attends help to explain the disparities that were identified in this study.
