Marlatt's classification of relapse precipitants: is the Emperor still wearing clothes?

The present paper provides comments on the series of papers dealing with the reliability and validity of Marlatt's taxonomy of relapse precipitants. The results of these papers suggest that the degree of reliability and predictive validity of the original relapse taxonomy, as operationalized and employed in the present studies, is lower than would be hoped for. Both methodological factors in the studies and limitations in the taxonomy are discussed. While the original taxonomic system has provided a useful heuristic model and a guide for clinical intervention, it is recommended that it be modified to improve its utility in research and practice. A number of specific recommendations are provided for modifying the system.