Replication of Alcoholism Acceptance Scores as a Function of Treatment

The aim of this study was to collect additional data on validity in further standardizing the Bell Alcoholism Scale of Adjustment as an instrument to measure acceptance of the illness nature of alcoholism. The scale was administered to 215 patients at the beginning (Time 1) and at the end (Time 2) of their participation in an alcohol-and-drug treatment program. On admission, the mean score was 110, and at discharge 97, a statistically significant decrease. In an earlier study, the mean scores were 131 and 121 for Time 1 and Time 2. The differences in the means in these two studies are discussed in terms of possible cultural changes that have presumedly come about as a result of awareness campaigns about alcoholism carried out during the 14 yr. since the first study was conducted. In addition, the present study indicated that the more highly educated patients showed significantly greater acceptance at the beginning of treatment than those whose education was less than or limited to high school. Education should be taken into account when interpreting scores.