Confrontation as a form of social support and feedback

Abstract

Few debates in the addiction field have been more controversial than the harm and benefit of confronting individuals about their substance use. This article reviews recent publications suggesting confrontation in the addiction field has been poorly defined and unfortunately limited to therapist‐client interactions. A definition of confrontation is presented that focuses on potential harm to the individual using substances. The Alcohol and Drug Confrontation Scale (ADCS) is discussed as a broad, comprehensive assessment of confrontation including an examination of individuals' perceptions of confrontational interactions. The preliminary research of individuals' experiences of confrontation in sober living recovery houses indicated that confrontation is often experienced assupportive and accurate. Previously reported findings are elaborated here by specifying implications for practitioners, families/friends, and users of services. Of particular importance is the confronter's ability to recognise when confrontation is counterproductive and to adjust their interactions accordingly.

Citation

Polcin, D. (2007), "Confrontation as a form of social support and feedback", Drugs and Alcohol Today, Vol. 7 No. 1, pp. 11-15. https://doi.org/10.1108/17459265200700004