Minimal intervention as a preparation for the treatment of alcohol dependency.
OBJECTIVE
To investigate the use of a minimal intervention as a preparation for treatment of alcohol dependency.


METHODS
A randomized-controlled trial with 361 treatment seekers in an alcohol treatment unit in Northwest England. Study variables included recent alcohol intake, participants' views of their drinking problem, and several self-report scale scores. Experimental group participants received an advance leaflet containing advice on reducing alcohol intake.


RESULTS
At follow-up participants in the leaflet group were more likely to view their drinking problem as a learnt behaviour. There was a non-significant tendency for more of the leaflet group to attend for assessment by comparison with controls. Significant improvements occurred over time in readiness to change (recognition subscale), self efficacy and dependency, independent of group allocation.


CONCLUSIONS
The tendency toward increased attendance rates should be confirmed in a larger sample. Findings have potential implications for the usage of treatment preparatory material.
Bamford
Zandra
Z
The Windsor Clinic, University Hospital Aintree, Liverpool, UK.
Booth
Peter G
PG
McGuire
James
J
Salmon
Peter
P
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000437:Alcoholism / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D015928:Cognitive Behavioral Therapy; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D015438:Health Behavior; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010342:Patient Acceptance of Health Care; D010349:Patient Compliance / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D012657:Self-Help Groups; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D013997:Time Factors; D014478:Unemployment / Q000706:statistics & numerical data