Individuals suffering alcohol-related problems often experience difficulties in social functioning. Conversely, poor social functioning may contribute to problematic drinking. To help improve drinking behaviors and social functioning some therapists include a spouse or significant other as part of the treatment process. Ideally, alcohol treatments should be tailored to address the multi-dimensional needs of the individual. Utilizing data collected as part of a larger NIAAA funded alcohol treatment outcome study, a matching hypothesis was tested regarding levels of social functioning and type of treatment (i.e., Community Reinforcement Approach or Cognitive Behavioral). A repeated measures MANCOVA analysis yielded statistically significant findings. Further, follow-up univariate tests revealed that patients correctly matched to treatment were drinking fewer drinks per drinking day, relative to those patients incorrectly matched, through one year post-treatment initiation (F 1,72=7.264, p < .05).
Learning Objectives: 1) Understand the purpose of a matching study 2) Describe the relationship between social functioning and alcohol problems 3) Discuss both clinical and research implications
Keywords: Alcohol Problems, Research
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.