Neuropsychological function and psychosocial status of alcohol rehabilitation program residents

This investigation examined the relationship between changes in psychosocial status and changes in neuropsychological function of clients undergoing treatment for substance use. A sample of 74 adults enrolled at a rehabilitation program for substance use were randomly assigned to two groups (one serving as a comparison group for practice effects). Participants were tested three times over 60 days on self-esteem, motivation, depression, and neuropsychological function. Consistent with other studies, participants demonstrated impaired baseline neuropsychological function that improved with alcoholic abstinence; however, changes in motivation and depression were associated with positive changes on few tests of neuropsychological function. The more common predictor of improved motor function test scores was low baseline function. Participants who remained in treatment were more likely to be Black, homeless, report less alcohol consumption, and score lower on a motivational scale than those who left treatment.