Suveying the Need for Significant-Other Involvement in the Treatment of Female Alcoholism

Abstract

Treatment settings are reporting increases in the numbers of female alcoholics requesting services. Since little information is known about female alcoholics, treatment personnel have difficulty in knowing what kinds of treatment or services to provide. The advocates of family (significant other) treatment propose extending such services to female alcoholics. However, the female alcoholic's willingness to participate in such programs is virtually unknown, let alone that of her significant other. A survey of female alcoholics hospitalized in a private alcoholism treatment facility was undertaken to explore the issue of significant-other involvement. Results of the survey demonstrate that such involvement is indicated for a great many female alcoholics. Suggestions for implementation and treatment implications are presented.