NCJ Number
129664
Journal
Corrections Today Volume: 53 Issue: 2 Dated: (April 1991) Pages: 126,200-203,208-210
Date Published
1991
Length
8 pages
Annotation
Counselors who work with cocaine abusers must understand the unique physiological properties of cocaine and the special techniques that need to be applied in treatment.
Abstract
The physiological properties of cocaine are reviewed as are the personality dynamics contributing to cocaine abusers' strong resistance to treatment. Most commonly identified personality traits of cocaine abusers include narcissism, egocentrism, and the need for excitement. Treatment personnel describe cocaine abusers as grandiose, terminally unique, hyperactive, controlling, domineering, self-centered, insensitive to others, distrustful, and materialistic. Sobriety is the goal for the cocaine abuser who enters treatment. This involves the total abstinence of all addictive chemicals and a change in attitudes, emotional responsibility, behavior, and lifestyle. Principles that need to be emphasized to maximize treatment success in work with cocaine abusers include: minimize the triggers, i.e., the powerful cravings and numerous stimuli that become associated with the desire for cocaine; establish a good therapeutic alliance; prevent relapse; and change lifestyle.