Edgar is in therapy for his alcoholism. His therapist is using a behavioural technique that involves having Edgar hold a glass of his favourite drink, smell it, place it to his lips, but refrain from drinking it. What is this treatment referred to as?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The described technique is known as cue exposure and response prevention. It involves exposing a person to cues or triggers for their addictive behavior, but preventing them from engaging in the behavior, helping them to better tolerate and resist the temptation to engage in the behavior. This technique is often used in the treatment of substance use disorders. Option A (controlled drinking) involves teaching individuals to drink in moderation, which is not the case in this scenario. Option B (covert sensitization) involves pairing an unwanted behavior (e.g., drinking) with an unpleasant stimulus (e.g., imagining getting sick), while option D (abstinence violation therapy) involves addressing feelings of guilt or shame related to a relapse in sobriety. Neither of these techniques precisely matches the method described in the scenario.

Edgar Is in Therapy for His Alcoholism