A multiple baseline analysis of treatment for heroin addiction

The effects and side effects of behavioral treatment for heroin abuse was assessed in a multiple baseline across behaviors design. Self-reported urges to take heroin, urine drug screens, assertiveness in rejecting efforts of drug pushers, and financial status were measured throughout the study. After baseline measures were taken on all responses, covert sensitization was begun, which decresed drugs urges and was associated with abstinence from drug use and positive change in assertiveness. However, extended baseline estimates of financial status indicated the client's liabilities were reliably increasing. Behavioral contracting was then implemented successfully influencing work behavior and paying back debts. Daily follow-up measures of drug use were assessed over a three month period, with no change in drug urges or use. A six month follow-up indicated no changes in drug urges or use, and the client was financially independent and employed in a responsible job. The results indicate the independence of reducing drug use and increasing some pro-social behaviors, and support the necessity of programs designed to decrease maladaptive while increasing adaptive behavior.