Anxiety as a factor in continuance and dropout in treatment.

The present study was conducted to determine whether or not a statistically significant relationship exists between patients' anxiety levels and dropout rates in an inpatient alcoholism treatment program. The anxiety test scores of two groups (20 veterans completing a 4-week rehabilitation program and 20 veterans terminating treatment against staff advice during the initial 2 weeks of treatment) were compared. No significant differences were measured in a between-group comparison. The need for future research to be conducted with the inclusion of a control group is illustrated in regard to the findings of this study.