Forgiveness and alcohol problems: A review of the literature and a call for intervention-based research

Despite empirical associations with many health-related outcomes and its fundamental place in Alcoholics Anonymous, the scientific study of forgiveness in addiction and recovery has only recently begun. Evidence derives from naturalistic studies and, when used, a short follow-up interval. It is time to expand the empirical study of the salutary forgiveness-alcohol association to include intervention-based research with sufficient follow-up intervals. Understanding the basic and nuanced effect of forgiveness among people with alcohol and other drug problems, though not a panacea, will inform the development of more refined and efficient treatment strategies for individuals struggling with alcoholism and addiction.