On the Activation of Symbiotic Gratification Fantasies as an Aid in the Treatment of Alcoholics

Abstract
Alcoholics (72) being treated at Veritas Villa [New York, USA] were divided into an experimental and a control group. In addition to the regular treatment program both groups received 4 subliminal exposures of a verbal message in each of 6 sessions over a 2-wk period. The messages were MOMMY AND I ARE ONE (experimental) and PEOPLE ARE WALKING (control), administered under double-blind conditions. In keeping with the main hypothesis, the experimental Ss [subjects] were rated as significantly more involved in treatment. Among the alcoholics who were more symptomatic to begin with, the MOMMY message, when contrasted with the control, lowered anxiety and depression, enhanced self-concept and reduced alcohol consumption after a 3-mo. follow-up.