The effects of Guided Participation and Systematic Desensitization in the treatment of a Paranoid Alcoholic: A Case Report

Abstract

SmnxuaryA compulsive drinker with severe behavorial problems, diagnosed as paranoid schizophrenic, was treated using several behavior modification techniques. Guided participation, role-playing and systematic desensitization were used in an effort to reduce inappropriate fears and increase more adaptive behavior. The alcoholism was not treated directly. Upon termination of therapy {14^ sessions), he had an extended period of sobriety and his social-interpersonal situation was greatly improved. In a \2-month follow-up, he continued to remain sober without the emergerae of other pathological features.