The effect of constructive coercion on the rehabilitative process. A study of the employed alcoholics in an alcoholism treatment program.

Two groups of employed men in an alcoholic rehabilitation program--one referred through an organized policy of constructive coercion and the other volunteer--were compared to test the efficacy of constructive coercion in the rehabilitation process. It was found that the patients referred by constructive coercion were younger, had fewer psychosocial problems, had a higher percentage who were abstinent and had higher rates of compliance with follow-up. A policy of constructive coercion allows earlier identification of workers with alcohol problems and improves the chances for a positive treatment outcome.