Focus groups were conducted to identify ways persons in recovery from chemi
cal dependence think they have benefited from their struggles with addictio
n. Categories of positive by-products were identified independently by two
sets of readers. Several of the positive byproducts discussed by the focus
group participants are commonly reported from other kinds of challenging li
fe experiences. These include increases in self-efficacy, family closeness,
closeness with others, compassion and spirituality, and changes in life pr
iorities. Additional positive by-products were discussed by the focus group
participants that may be more unique to substance abuse and other similar
stressors, including increased self-knowledge, enhanced ability to help off
spring with substance abuse-related issues, and decreased naivete. Ways to
incorporate knowledge about these positive by-products into substance abuse
treatment programs are introduced. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Inc. All righ
ts reserved.