Encouraging participation in aftercare group therapy among substance-dependent men.

Increasing the length of participation in alcohol and drug treatment is associated with improved outcome. The present studies were designed to increase the number of individuals who participate in outpatient aftercare group therapy following completion of inpatient treatment. In Study 1, 22 participants who were assigned to attend a session of aftercare group during inpatient treatment were not more likely to participate in outpatient aftercare than those 19 who received a placebo treatment during inpatient treatment. In Study 2, 13 clients assigned a more intensive treatment, receiving aftercare orientation and signing a treatment contract, were compared with a group of 13 given placebo treatment; however, again there was no significant difference in outpatient participation in aftercare.