NCJ Number
168185
Date Published
1997
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This paper identifies some of the characteristics common to most dependent alcohol abusers who come for treatment; these findings are then placed within the context of some of the literature on group psychotherapy.
Abstract
Within both psychiatry and psychoanalysis, individuals who are severely dependent on alcohol and other drugs are often classified as borderline personalities. In working with individuals with a history of serious alcohol abuse, the author has identified four fundamental characteristics that emerge when contact goes beyond a brief intervention stage; these characteristics coincide with much of the description of patients with borderline personalities. One characteristic is the speed and intensity with which dependency is formed, and a second characteristic is a tendency toward extreme forms of splitting through projective identification. Other characteristics are a preoccupation with boundaries, structures, limits, and authority that often brings an adolescent feel to the relationship, as well as a generally low self-esteem and a below-average tolerance for emotional pain and discomfort. The way to move beyond the many problems of working analytically with a range of borderline patients is by working exclusively with them in groups. Groups suit very dependent problem drinkers far better than one-to-one interventions. Group life provides endless opportunities for mutual identification, support, and sharing, all of which can contribute to a sense of increased self-esteem and containment within the individual. The most important reason why groups should be the treatment of choice for this client group, however, is that relationships with therapists (and others) are much easier to manage over time; and recovery from dependency problems takes time.