Cue reactivity as a predictor of drinking among male alcoholics

J Consult Clin Psychol. 1994 Jun;62(3):620-6. doi: 10.1037//0022-006x.62.3.620.

Abstract

Social learning theories suggest that conditioned responses may increase the risk for relapse. Responses to alcohol use cues (cue reactivity) are associated with variables suggestive of risk but little research exists on the relationship of cue reactivity to treatment outcome. Alcoholic men admitted for detoxification to a treatment program (n = 45) underwent a cue reactivity assessment protocol, and 91% received 3-month follow-up interviews. Greater salivary reactivity predicted greater frequency of drinking during follow-up. Attentional factors added independent variance to the prediction of drinking outcome, with greater attention to stimulus or to response predicting less drinking. Cue reactivity did not predict length of hospital stay or latency to first drink. Results are discussed in the context of information processing, social learning theories, and clinical implications for relapse prevention.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Alcohol Drinking / prevention & control
  • Alcohol Drinking / psychology*
  • Alcoholism / psychology*
  • Alcoholism / rehabilitation
  • Arousal*
  • Cues*
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Individuality
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Patient Admission
  • Risk Factors