Synopsis
Discusses the causes and progression of addiction, tells how to identify dependency, and how loved ones can intervene
Reviews
YA-- A how-to guide for confronting addicts and their addictions. The Wrights explain the problem and the addicts' need to continue their lifestyle. They then go into detail about how those affected by the illness can intervene and assist in a recovery program. A step-by-step approach is outlined. Because the book is easy to read and written in layman's language, it is a must for YA collections. The appendixes are inclusive and provide guides for assessing and interpreting necessary information. Young adults will find the information helpful in their relationships not only with their peers but also with addicted adults in their lives.
-Jeanette M. Lippincott, W. T. Woodson High School, Fairfax, VA
Copyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Wright, a recovering alcoholic, and his wife, who head their own alcohol and drug treamtent center in Sun Valley, Idaho, address their book to concerned family, friends and associates of chemically dependent people. This comprehensive, step-by-step manual describes how nonprofessionals can prepare and conduct effective group intervention as a means of arresting chemical addiction. Participants, under the aegis of a professional, are guided to present evidence and personal feelings in an effort to help the addict acknowledge that a serious problem and need for help exist and to uncover underlying reasons for the abuse. The confrontation, we're shown, should conclude with an ultimatum requiring the subject to enter into treatment. 25,000 first printing; Literary Guild and Doubleday Book Club alternates; author tour.
Copyright 1990 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Co-founders of the Life Treatment Center in Sun Valley, Idaho, the Wrights offer a refreshing alternative to popular co-dependency literature by focusing on getting help for the abuser, not on self-protection. Viewing intervention as "readily learned, easily applied, and dramatic in its results," they caution would-be confronters to take stock of their motives, offer tips on setting or body language to help ensure the best chance of success, and examine objectively the benefits and drawbacks of various treatment programs. Biological factors that influence addiction are presented as a guide toward understanding, not excusing. Whether listing the excuses people give for not intervening or the ways alcoholics and addicts justify their actions, the Wrights are almost amusing as they astutely capture the words and intonations we have all heard so many times.
- Rochelle Ratner, formerly Poetry Editor, "Soho Weekly News," New York
Copyright 1990 Reed Business Information, Inc.
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