ABSTRACT
This chapter explores specific resistance issues that are salient to working with the driving-while-impaired (DWI) offender population. The term "resistance" was first used by psychoanalytically oriented therapists, and it was rare to ever find the term used by behaviorally oriented therapists. In its more general usage, resistance refers to any client behavior that the therapist or counselor labels as antitherapeutic. The initial manifestation of resistance on the part of the DWI client is usually one of anger. The anger that is often seen in this initial stage of treatment is based upon this perceived lack of responsibility and is often based on fear. The DWI offender may fear that if one were to take responsibility for the DWI event it would mean needing to face issues regarding the role of irresponsible drinking behavior, the use of poor judgment, or possibly alcoholism.
