Compulsive Heroin Use and Interpersonal Orientation

Abstract

This research attempts to clarify and quantify the ways in which heroin addicts deal with interpersonal relations. A sample of heroin addicts on a methadone maintenance program were given the Fundamental Interpersonal Relations Orientation-Behavior (FIRO-B) scale. An accidental sample consisted of 35, approximately one-half, of the clinic's population. A mean interpersonal orientation profile is established and interpreted. An analysis of variance was performed for each of the six FIRO-B scores. Patients needs based on FIRO-B scores are discussed with regard to the descriptions of addicts life-styles as described in the literature. The possible etiological basis for these interpersonal orientations is also discussed. Several therapeutic approaches, as indicated by FIRO-B scores, are explored.