Stress, cognitive factors, and coping resources as predictors of relapse in alcoholics

One hundred alcohol-dependent individuals attending a detoxification unit were assessed on a variety of psychological, social and demographic variables. Sixty-one participants were contacted at follow-up over 1 year later. Alcohol consumption was assessed through self-report and corroborative information. Self-reported levels of stress and social support were also obtained. High self-efficacy predicted low levels of self reported drinking at follow-up. Negative coping predicted higher levels of drinking as reported by the corroborator. High levels of stress in the month prior to follow-up were related to self-reported poor drinking outcomes, while ongoing social support since treatment was associated with favorable drinking outcomes. Overall, higher levels of self-efficacy during detoxification and social support following treatment were the best predictors of a favourable drinking outcome.