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Abstract
In this study the attributions made by alcohol dependent respondents for their “own” and “others” relapses were examined. Seventy alcohol dependent inpatients participated. Each respondent completed a research questionnaire which assessed demographic details, drinking history, alcohol dependence and included an attribution scale on which respondents rated their own last relapse, and four relapse scenarios of “other” people, in terms of locus of causality (external/internal), personal control, external control, stability and globality.
There were significant differences in the attributions made by alcohol dependent respondents for their “own” relapses as against the relapses of “others”. The relapses of “others” were seen as being significantly different; having greater internal locus of causality, lower external control and higher personal control attributions. No differences were found on the dimensions of globality and stability.
The existence of such differences suggest that attribution theory is of relevance to any model of relapse that is based on client self report. It is also possible that the current emphasis in clinical work on the identification and management of high risk external situations as pre-cipitants of relapse, may be a consequence of the attribution process rather than the “real” cause of relapse.