ALCOHOL AND DRUG-ABUSERS REASONS FOR SEEKING TREATMENT

Clients at two different treatment facilities were asked at assessment how influential each of 10 possible reasons were in their decision to change their alcohol or drug use. Clients at both facilities most oft en endorsed ''weighing the pros and cons of drinking or drug use'' and a ''warning from spouse.'' Client's reasons for seeking treatment wer e also examined in relation to treatment compliance. Three reasons - ' 'weighing the pros and cons,'' ''hitting rock bottom,'' and experienci ng a ''major lifestyle change'' - were predictive of treatment complia nce. Clients who rated any of these reasons as influential were more l ikely to enter and complete treatment. Although more research is neede d, knowledge of clients' reasons for seeking treatment might be useful in treatment matching.