Abstract
The answer to the question: “Is this person suitable for controlled drinking?” is seen as a process of ongoing assessment, decision making and re-evaluation rather than a discrete one-off decision. Certain variables have been demonstrated as predictive of a controlled drinking versus an abstinence treatment goal and these are considered with respect to their likely role in the decision making process. The wishes and attitude of the client and significant others are considered of primary importance. Severity of drinking symptoms, although important, is less predictive than age and employment status at intake although there is a significant interaction between these variables. Successful controlled drinkers tend to have lower prior levels of alcohol consumption. Past periods of abstinence or control are important in goal choice but can be misleading. Cognitive impairment and life threatening physical damage are strong contraindicators of a controlled drinking treatment goal. It is concluded that the wishes of the client and significant others are of upmost importance in deciding for whom controlled drinking. The tentative treatment guidelines of Heather and Robertson are also presented.
Additional information
Notes on contributors
Simon Lenton
Both authors formerly Public Health Officers, Eastern Sydney Area Public Health Unit Previously general practitioner, Orange NSW, Australia.