THE CONDITIONED AVERSION TREATMENT IN CHRONIC ALCOHOLISM : (Preliminary Report of 100 Cases)

Since the introduction of the aversion treatment fifteen months ago at this hospital, 15 percent of an unselected group of patients have remained abstinent for a period of five to fifteen months. An abstinence rate of 55 percent, however, was obtained in a selected group of patients with a commendable sociological background. A period of at least three months sobriety was obtained in 52 percent of all patients treated. The aversion treatment is regarded not as a therapy in itself but merely as a valuable method to interrupt the alcoholic cycle for a conjectural period of time, which should be utilized for intensive psychotherapy.