MOTIVATIONAL SUBTYPES IN AN INPATIENT SAMPLE OF SUBSTANCE-ABUSERS

Motivational subgroups in a sample of inpatient substance abusers were identified to facilitate future development of treatment intervention s aimed at enhancing compliance and involvement. The modified Stages o f Change Readiness and Treatment Eagerness Scales from 165 subjects we re subject to factor and cluster analyses. Results suggest the instrum ent assesses three dimensions: determination. action. and contemplatio n. Using these dimensions, three subgroups were identified: Uninvolved . Ambivalent, and Active. There were no differences on demographic or background variables or Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory 2 (MMPI-2) profiles. The Uninvolved group scored significantly lower tha n the other two groups on measures of alcohol use and abuse. The Ambiv alent and Active groups did not differ on any of the measures of alcoh ol use and abuse. The Ambivalent group demonstrated a high level of co nflict and inaction. The Active group appeared to be aware of their de pendence and were ready to change their behavior. The results have imp lications for treatment matching and enhancing treatment motivation.