Alcoholics' Patterns of Controlled Drinking
EDWARD GOTTHEIL M.D., PH.D.1,
ARTHUR I. ALTERMAN PH.D.2,
THOMAS E. SKOLODA M.A.3, , and
BRENDAN F. MURPHY M.S.W.4
1 Consultant, Coatesville VA Hospital, Coatesville, Pa. and Professor of Psychiatry, Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia, Pa. 19107
2 Research Psychologist, Coatesville VA Hospital, Coatesville, Pa. and Instructor in Psychiatry (Psychology), Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia, Pa. 19107
3 Research Psychologist, Coatesville VA Hospital, Coatesville, Pa.
4 Research Social Worker, Coatesville VA Hospital, Coatesville, Pa.
Groups of seven to ten volunteer alcoholic patients were studied and treated on a closed ward where alcohol was available. Of 66 patients who completed the program, 44 percent did not drink at any time, 33 percent drank throughout the drinking phase of the program, and 23 percent began drinking and then stopped. The results of this study question the assumption that drinking by alcoholics necessarily results in irresistible craving, more drinking, and loss of control. The authors point out the need for research into the circumstances and maneuvers that influence resistance to drinking.
