Abstract
Practical issues in considering abstinence or moderation drinking goals for severely dependent alcoholics are discussed from three different perspectives: (1) factors associated with the client; (2) therapist considerations; and (3) factors stemming from the service-providing institution's policies and concerns. Distinctions are made between moderate drinking defined as: a goal choice, a treatment training procedure, and short-term drinking outcome, and a stable outcome pattern over a long term. While current studies show that moderate drinking is a relatively rare stable outcome pattern in severely dependent alcoholics, a sizable minority of alcoholics in treatment express a preference for moderation as a goal choice. Potential benefits and risks of moderation as a planned goal are presented. Guidelines for selecting appropriate candidates for a sanctioned moderate drinking goal are discussed.