Craftsman versus professional: analysis of the controlled drinking controversy

With the publication of the Pendery et al. follow-up of the Sobells' experimental studies of controlled drinking, serious questions about the relationship of paraprofessionals (i.e., craftsmen) and professionals in the improvement of alcoholism treatment have been raised. The present analysis reexamines the original published data of the controlled drinking studies in light of the Pendery et al. follow-up and draws the conclusion that readers can find support for both the success and failure of the controlled drinking by examining only the Sobells' data. On this basis, a more phenomenological view of alcoholism and alcoholism treatment is suggested as a way out of the schism between the craftsman and the professional, both of whom operate from within a linear, cause-effect mode of thinking.