About Alcoholism - Alcoholism Information, Research and Treatment

Reaching alcoholics in ghetto areas requires special techniques, reported H. E. Krimmel of the Cleveland Center on Alcoholism. Recognizing that slum areas have large numbers of alcoholics, the center began a special project to reach them. They found that it was necessary to reach out to the families in their own neighborhoods, for they would not or could not travel to obtain help, no matter how much they wanted the services. Total abstinence as a goal was found impractical. Long-range goals were not acceptable because of previous disappointments, and Immediate satisfactions were crucial. Because the ghetto is primarily a group culture, group therapy may be even more effective there than in other areas.