Recovery homes: A social network analysis of Oxford Houses for Native Americans

AbstractSocial network data were collected among residents of an Oxford House (OH) recovery home, which was located on Suquamish Tribal territory. Data were collected on the social connections of eight male residents (including four Native Americans and four non–Native Americans) using a social network instrument. A number of social network relationship types were examined, including friendship, trust, and mentorship. Social network data assessed included diameter, reciprocity, the average path length, cohesion, density, transitivity, and centrality. Findings indicated that the OH provided residents a well-integrated network with multiple sources of friendship, trust, and mentors. This is of importance as recovery from substance abuse is facilitated when recovering individuals are provided stable and well-functioning networks that foster social support, access to resources, and mentorship.