Remedies for alcoholism and substance abuse; an overview

This paper represents an evolving interdisciplinary approach to addictive phenomena. As we enter the last decade of the twentieth century, it is clear that improved treatment outcomes can occur if remedial efforts are prescriptive. Clinicians must develop the skills to organize individually tailored treatment strategies around the constellation of biological, psychological and social factors that shape each person's unique style of chemical dependence and associated dysfunction. Based on a philosophy that rational clinical practice follows scientific theory solidly grounded in research, this article reviews the literature on individual differences and patterns of substance abuse and effective strategies for their change. In recognition of the multifactorial nature of addiction, the text is organized around a continuum of issues that affect clinical practice: biological factors, prevention and early intervention, multiproblem patients, treatment and the law, and treatment alternatives.