The moderating role of substance abusers’ personal attributes in predicting relapse and partner persuasiveness

Abstract

In relationships where one partner is dependent on substances, the non-dependent, or “functional” partners use a variety of strategies to stop the abuse and prevent relapse. Inconclusive research results on the effectiveness of these strategies can be partially explained by the failure to consider personal characteristics of the substance abusers that may make them more or less receptive to their partners’ attempts at assisting them in their sobriety. This work explores the substance abusers’ anger, over-controlled hostility, and ego-strength as moderating factors influencing both the types and amounts of persuasive strategies used by the significant other. The sample was composed of 67 married or cohabitating couples with one functional and one substance-abusing partner (as assessed by the chemical use, abuse, and dependence (CUAD) scale). Participants’ personality variables were tested using the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI), followed by videotaped interviews where they were independently asked about their own and their partner's behavior. Contrary to predictions, as the abusers’ anger and ego-strength increased so did their partners’ use of punishment and the consistency of the substance-abusing behavior. Finally, as the abusers’ ego-strength increased and over-controlled hostility decreased the partner presented more reinforcement of the substance abuse. These findings encourage a systems approach to the treatment of substance abuse, and provide insight into appropriate and effective strategies used by the functional partner in this system.