Perspectives and future directions

Abstract

Background: Mechanisms of behavior change (MOBC) in treating drinking problems is a topic of growing importance. Methods: This article identifies salient themes presented in talks during the first Annual RSA Satellite on Mechanisms of Behavior Change in Alcoholism Treatment. Results: Themes focused on the need to move beyond a passive approach to identifying MOBC in alcoholism treatment and a number of conceptual and methodological advances were proposed. Conclusions: While a consensus has emerged that more attention should be paid to MOBC in alcoholism treatment research, a subgroup of experts are calling for MOBC to be the primary focus in future efforts. © 2007 by the Research Society on Alcoholism.