ABSTRACT
Research workers may adopt the stance that whilst treatment may work, this has not yet been proved. This chapter argues that the nihilistic attitude to treatment which often results from an uncritical acceptance of the research studies is unjustified. Most treatment-evaluation studies seek to demonstrate a relationship between changes in the alcohol abuser’s condition and exposure to specified treatment. Whilst most alcoholism-treatment studies ignore the relationship factors, there are some exceptions. Though empathy is a central feature in many different therapeutic systems, there are three main ideas about its influence. The therapist who has a thorough understanding of the different models of alcoholism, and the different types of intervention, is potentially in a position to develop a highly empathetic relationship with the client, whereas therapists who are committed to one model and one approach may well find themselves unable to form such a relationship.
