Changes in perceived and experienced control among inpatient alcoholics

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Addiction Studies
• Rehabilitation Science

Background:

• Alcoholism is a complex condition often associated with external locus of control.
• Rehabilitation programs aim to foster personal agency and coping mechanisms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate changes in locus of control and experienced control among alcoholics during a rehabilitation program.
• To identify factors influencing these changes.

Main Methods:

• Administered Locus of Control and Experienced Control Scales to 40 alcoholics.
• Data collected at admission and after 6 weeks of treatment.

Main Results:

• Participants demonstrated a significant shift towards a more internal locus of control.
• An increase in experienced control over interpersonal and intrapersonal pressures was observed.
• A decrease in perceived external control by such pressures was noted.

Conclusions:

• Alcoholism treatment can positively influence locus of control and experienced control.
• Individuals with an initially internal locus of control may experience greater benefits from treatment.
• Fostering internal locus of control is a potential therapeutic target in addiction recovery.