Contingent reinforcement of abstinence with individuals abusing cocaine and marijuana

J Appl Behav Anal. 1991 Winter;24(4):657-65. doi: 10.1901/jaba.1991.24-657.

Abstract

Two males diagnosed with cocaine dependence received a behavioral intervention comprised of contingency management and the community reinforcement approach. During the initial phase of treatment, reinforcement was delivered contingent on submitting cocaine-free urine specimens. The community reinforcement approach involved two behavior therapy sessions each week. Almost complete cocaine abstinence was achieved, but regular marijuana use continued. During a second phase, reinforcement magnitude was reduced, but remained contingent on submitting cocaine-free specimens. Behavior therapy was reduced to once per week. Cocaine abstinence and regular marijuana use continued. Next, reinforcement was delivered contingent on submitting cocaine- and marijuana-free specimens. This modified contingency resulted in an abrupt increase in marijuana abstinence and maintenance of cocaine abstinence. One- and 5-month follow-ups indicated that cocaine abstinence continued, but marijuana smoking resumed. These results indicate that the behavioral intervention was efficacious in achieving abstinence from cocaine and marijuana; maintenance, however, was achieved for cocaine only.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Behavior Therapy / methods*
  • Cocaine*
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Marijuana Abuse / psychology
  • Marijuana Abuse / rehabilitation*
  • Reinforcement Schedule*
  • Reinforcement, Social
  • Social Support
  • Substance-Related Disorders / psychology
  • Substance-Related Disorders / rehabilitation*

Substances

  • Cocaine