Cognitive processes and cognitive behavior therapy in the treatment of problem drinking

Cognitive behavior Therapy has been shown to be an effective therapy for a wide range of clinical problems. However, the efficacy of CBT on addictive behavior is still unknown. This paper reviews the evidence for the efficacy of cognitive behavior therapy treatment for problem drinkers and examines its relationship with cognitive models of problem drinking. A computer search of the literature showed that only 13 studies met the criteria for inclusion in this review. This review indicated that there is evidence to show that cognitive behavior therapy can be successfully applied to addictive behaviors, in particular, problem drinking. However, there is lack of evidence to show that cognitive behavior therapy supports cognitive models of problem drinking. Future direction for research in this area is suggested.