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APHA Scientific Session and Event Listing

Ashley P. Duggan, PhD¹, Beth A. Le Poire, PhD², and Jennifer Gaze¹. (1) Communication Department, Boston College, 140 Commonwealth Avenue, Chestnut HIll, MA 02467, 617-552-0584, dugganas@bc.edu, (2) Communication Department, California Lutheran University, 6394 Gabbert Road, Moorpark, CA 93021

The present study examines verbal strategies (validation or assertion of the self or partner) and nonverbal communication behaviors (observed cue complexes) in conversations between substance-dependent individuals and their romantic partners. Explanatory models of interpersonal communication suggests these couples are unable to openly discuss the nature of control and thus rely on indirect nonverbal communication and verbal strategies that validate the partner. 98 individuals in a substance-dependent romantic relationship were videotaped during conflict, and their verbal and nonverbal communication behaviors were coded and used to predict relapse, persuasive effectiveness, and goal attainment. Further, patterns of increased similarity or disparity of communication behaviors throughout the interaction are considered. Results suggest communication behaviors of addicts and their partners and are related to relapse status, as well as to persuasive effectiveness and goal attainment, and interpreting communication behaviors involves examining social meanings of behavior and the ways communication is altered throughout the interaction. Persuasive effectiveness was related to more pleasant nonverbal behaviors and more validating verbal behaviors, suggesting partners feel a continuous need to demonstrate support for partners. Perceived goal attainment was predicted by more pleasant vocal cues and by more assertive verbal behaviors. Compensation through disparate nonverbal and verbal cues during an interaction was observed in non-addicts increasing pleasant nonverbal and verbally validating behaviors, while non-addicts generally used low levels of such behaviors. Implications for drug addiction recovery and treatment focusing on the communication behavior of both partners are provided.

Learning Objectives: Learning objectives

At the conclusion of the session, participants will be able to
• Identify the ways interpersonal communication contributes to quality and process of substance-use treatment. 2)Describe communication behaviors associated with encouraging continued substance use. 3)Identify paradoxical injunctions (logical contradictions) between romantic partners’ goals to decrease substance use and nurture the individual through crisis. 4)Identify the ways close relationships influence health-related decision making. 5)Describe the role of social influence, control dynamics, and social support in communication about substance use.

Keywords: Substance Abuse Treatment, Communication

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Not Answered

Communication Factors in Reaching Special Populations

The 134th Annual Meeting & Exposition (November 4-8, 2006) of APHA