NCJ Number
182719
Journal
Journal of Drug Issues Volume: 27 Issue: 2 Dated: Spring 1997 Pages: 417-429
Date Published
1997
Length
13 pages
Annotation
Research on behavioral interventions for cocaine dependence among low-income, minority, inner-city clients focused on gaining better awareness of the multiple problems of this population and in improving treatment entry and outcome.
Abstract
These clients have multiple treatment needs, and, like other populations of cocaine-addicted individuals, they are difficult to entice into treatment, to stay in treatment, and to effect positive treatment outcomes. This research focused on gaining better awareness of what types of problems are encountered in this population and the best ways of assessing these patient needs, finding ways to increase rates of treatment entry, and improving treatment outcome. Based on the research findings to date, this study recommends that the treatment of impoverished inner-city crack cocaine abusers through the use of cognitive or psychoeducational strategies should routinely evaluate the personality characteristics and neuropsychological status of their clients as potential covariates of outcome. Also, attention should be given to retaining in treatment patients who are highly anxious, have current involvement with the criminal justice system, and live greater distances from the clinic. Clinics should offer immediate intake to clients who telephone to schedule an intake appointment. Further, voucher incentive systems that use large, immediate incentives for provision of cocaine-free urine samples can help to initiate cocaine abstinence; however, incentives offered on other schedules of voucher payments may not be any more effective than no voucher system at all. More work is needed before clear and comprehensive recommendations for the treatment of crack cocaine addiction can be offered. 2 tables and 41 references