Working With the Resistant Cocaine Abuser (From Tough Customers: Counseling Unwilling Clients, P 55-64, 1991, George A Harris, ed. -- See NCJ-132622)

• NCJ Number: 132626
• Author(s): H M Brown
• Date Published: 1991
• Length: 10 pages
• Sale Source: American Correctional Association
• Publication Type: Training (Aid/Material)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

Treatment professionals who work with cocaine abusers will encounter resistance in all phases of treatment and must understand the specific physiological and psychological effects of cocaine and the personality dynamics and behavioral results associated with its use.

Abstract

Cocaine is now known as the most powerful reinforcing substance in existence, because it is both a central nervous system stimulant and a sympathomimetic. Binge use occurs repeatedly, based on the principles of classical conditioning. In addition, cocaine users are narcissistic and egocentric and have a strong craving for excitement due either to their existing personality or the results of cocaine use. Therefore, it is difficult to induce cocaine abusers to enter or maintain treatment. Treatment should aim for sobriety which includes total abstinence from all addictive drugs as well as a change in attitudes, emotional responsiveness, behavior, and lifestyle. Treatment should aim to minimize triggers, establish a good therapeutic alliance, prevent and deal with relapse, and change lifestyles. 7 references