NCJ Number
171423
Journal
Alcoholism Treatment Quarterly Volume: 15 Issue: 4 Dated: (1997) Pages: 17-32
Date Published
1997
Length
16 pages
Annotation
This is an overview of the current understanding of addictive disease.
Abstract
Addicted criminal justice clients present unique challenges because of the complex biopsychosocial problems that frequently accompany their addiction. The overview of the current understanding of addictive disease that is presented in this article includes the important distinction between abstinence and sobriety. In the Eagleville Recovery Program, each client's medical, psychosocial, educational, vocational and psychiatric assessments are used to develop an individualized treatment plan. Group therapy is the primary treatment modality, supplemented by individual and family therapy, adult basic education, work therapy, and active involvement in the 12-step programs. Group therapy is important because clients often reject suggestions from professionals but are willing to accept feedback from peers. Even minor successes in the educational program enhance clients' self-esteem and reinforce other areas of growth and change, while work therapy provides an opportunity to learn how to relate to a supervisor and "straight" co-workers. The article includes a case study to illustrate the course of treatment for a typical client. Note, table, references