NCJ Number
191163
Journal
American Journal on Addictions Volume: 10 (Supplement) Dated: 2001 Pages: 51-59
Date Published
2001
Length
9 pages
Annotation
This article assesses different types of drug and alcohol treatment programs and determines which form of treatment is the most effective.
Abstract
According to the author, the CRA and its offshoot CRAFT proved most successful for a variety of reasons. These programs not only focused on the individual but also on the environment. Unlike other treatment programs, they used a multi-framework approach that included cognitive and behavioral techniques as well as positive reinforcements. In order to reduce substance abuses, a comprehensive program known as the “Community Reinforcement Approach (CRA)” was introduced which included cognitive and behavioral treatments. This program evolved from the belief that the environment played a crucial role in determining whether or not an individual would abuse alcohol and drugs. Therefore, to aid in the recovery process familial, social, recreational, and occupational reinforcements were used. The primary goal was to demonstrate to an individual that a sober lifestyle was more rewarding. Studies of various treatment programs with and without using CRA methods demonstrated that individuals who participated in those programs using CRA were more likely to recover than those who in regular treatment programs. A similar program that was created from CRA was “Community Reinforcement and Family Training (CRAFT),” which worked through the care of a significant other to overcome an abuser resistance to treatment. The next challenge is to incorporate CRA into clinical practice. References