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Changes in alcohol expectancies and drinking behavior among treated problem drinkers
G J Connors1, A R Tarbox, L A Faillace
1Research Institute on Addictions, Buffalo, New York 14203.
Journal of Studies on Alcohol
|November 1, 1993
Summary
Changes in alcohol expectancies correlate with reduced drinking in problem drinkers. These changes emerge by 18 months post-treatment, not during the 8-week program.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Clinical Psychology
- Addiction Research
Background:
- Limited research exists on the relationship between alcohol expectancies and drinking behavior changes in clinical populations.
- Understanding this link is crucial for developing effective alcohol use disorder treatments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the correspondence between changes in alcohol expectancies and drinking behavior in problem drinkers undergoing outpatient treatment.
- To determine the timeline of these changes in relation to treatment completion and long-term follow-up.
Main Methods:
- Male and female problem drinkers were assessed for drinking behavior and alcohol expectancies at pretreatment, posttreatment, and 18-month follow-up.
- Participants engaged in an 8-week outpatient treatment program focused on drinking reduction techniques.
Main Results:
- A significant relationship was observed between decreased alcohol expectancies and reduced drinking.
- Reductions in alcohol expectancies were not evident immediately post-treatment but were significant at the 18-month follow-up.
Conclusions:
- Alcohol expectancies may be a lagging indicator of drinking behavior change in individuals with problem drinking.
- Long-term follow-up is essential for capturing the full impact of treatment on alcohol expectancies and drinking patterns.