Current status of the field: contrasting perspectives. The behavioral therapist's view

Over the past decade, behavioral research and treatment approaches to alcohol problems have become an integral part of the alcohol field. Particularly valuable contributions have included the provision of alternative treatment methods and goals for nonaddicted problem drinkers, the development of relapse management and prevention techniques, the refinement of assessment and treatment outcome evaluation methodologies, and an overall enhancement of our understanding of the nature of alcohol problems. Viewing the progression of research studies over the last 10 years, it is evident that the behavioral perspective on alcohol problems has matured beyond ideological boundaries. The greatest strength of behavioral approaches relates to a reliance on the scientific method. Most likely, behavioral approaches will continue to contribute meaningfully to the field of alcohol studies.