The application of behaviour therapy to the treatment of alcoholism

The development of alcoholism is outlined in terms of the reinforcement theory of learning and a therapeutic method of relaxation combined with electrical aversion is described. Results at 6 and 12 months after discharge for alcoholics treated by this method are given. A control group on electrical aversion therapy alone, is in process of collection. It is pointed out, that the usefulness of the method of electrical aversion conditioning employed, should not restrict the need to work towards improved techniques based upon further attention to the general body of learning, theory and experimentation. The value of arousing the motivation of the alcoholic for treatment is discussed.