structured similar to AA, whichaims to provide group support, assist the efforts of spouses to regain self-esteem, torefrain from feeling responsible, and to develop a rewarding life for themselves andtheir families (Kaplan & Sadock, 1998).Alateen is an organization that focuses on children of people with alcoholdependence. The organization helps children understand their parents alcoholdependence (Kaplan & Sadock, 1998).There are several models of therapy to use when treating people withalcohol-related disorders. Behavior therapy focuses on relaxation training, assertivenesstraining, self-control skills and new strategies to help them master their own environment(Kaplan & Sadock, 1998). Operant conditioning programs are often used with peoplewho have alcohol-related disorders to either modify or stop drinking behavior (Kaplan &Sadock, 1998). Types of reinforcements range from monetary reward, to opportunitieswhere one can live in an enriched inpatient environment, or have access to pleasurablesocial interactions (Kaplan & Sadock, 1998). Cognitive-behavioral therapy believes that addiction is primarily a learnedbehavior, and therefore can be unlearned (Riley, 1998). In order to eliminate behavioralhabits, the client must also change their cognitive patterns which distort thinking andperpetuate alcohol use (Riley, 1998). When identifying consequences as a result ofbehavior, therapist help the person by examining the following (Riley, 1998).Verify what rewards a person may experience by using alcohol.What motivates them to drink even though they know the consequences will benegative.Examine whatever false beliefs the user may have concerning benefits obtained byconsuming alcohol.In addition to consequences, the individual will be asked to identify warning signs thatmay lead to relapse. Other strategies include restructuring the environment in an effort toreduce factors that may provide temptations which lead to usage (Riley, 1998)...
