Cognitive inductions into treatment among probated drug abusers

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to develop a treatment induction program which would allow probated drug abusers to comprehensively evaluate the impact of their drug use behavior. It was hypothesized that probationers who performed this type of self-analysis would become more aware of the negative consequences of their behavior and, consequently, be more motivated for treatment. To this end, three studies were conducted in which the treatment induction program was administered and revised. In its final version, probationers who received the treatment induction program approximately 1 month after entering the treatment facility scored significantly higher on treatment-related motivation assessments than did those who did not receive the induction during this period. The present paper discusses implications of both the induction program itself, as well as the crucial role of timing for its implementation.