Behavioral techniques in the treatment of drug abuse: An evaluative review

Abstract

Studies of the use of behavior therapy of drug abuse are classified into (1) treatment of drug-taking behavior, (2) treatment of alternative behaviors, and (3) ward programs. Aversion therapies and extinction methods are included in the first category. Systematic desensitization, relaxation, covert conditioning, contingency contracting, and broad-spectrum approaches are classified into the second category. The ward program category consists of contingency management and token economy programs. The reviewed studies are evaluated as for patient characteristics, designs, assessment methods and follow-up. While the majority of studies show positive results the conclusions are restricted by methodological weaknesses. This points to the necessity of controlled studies both with single-subject and group designs.