ith brain damage (Reed, 1991). Of the alcoholics enteringtreatment, 75% have neurocognitive deficits. Psychosocial and Psychologicalperformance components which are affected by alcohol dependence includes values,self-image, self-esteem, self-expression, interpersonal and role related skills, timemanagement, coping skills, and social conduct (Riley, 1998). Other problem areas can bethe inability to define goals, lacking goal oriented behavior, and depression (Reed, 1991). It is very important to consider performance contexts especially in the areas ofdevelopment, cultural, and social environments. For many of these deficitsimprovements have been noticed with prolonged recovery, although some losses may beirreversible. Treatment programs can help these people over time or compensate fordeficits from alcohol dependency (Riley, 1998).Individual therapy is part of many treatment programs, however, most of theseprograms employ various forms of some type of group treatment (Neistadt & Crepeau,1998). Substance abusers in general have a tendency to isolate themselves, feel they arealone, or are unable to cope with their problems. Here is where group therapy helps thosewho have had similar experiences.Group treatment settings in particular are appropriate for alcohol dependentindividuals since many people with alcoholic disorders tend to be emotionally andsocially isolated, drink alone, and have difficulty tolerating conflict or relating socially(Riley, 1998). Group settings can help foster acceptance and a sense of belonging whichstrives to put the newly recovering individual at ease (Riley, 1998). During a session, theindividual would be encouraged to share feelings and experience group discussion, andparticipate in role playing or psychodrama (Reed, 1991). These opportunities areprovided to the individual as a means to decrease social isolation, learn new interpersonalskills, and practice reintegration into social settings such as fa...
