While much research has focused on the factors affecting chemically dependent behavior relatively little research has focused on the role of the significant other in either contributing to, or aiding in the reduction of, addicted behavior. This 2-part investigation will study the types and patterns of verbal and nonverbal behavior which partners of substance-addicted individuals attempt to use in order to curtail substance-dependent behavior. The result of this investigation will be the development of a communication training program for partners of substance-dependent individuals. This work will explore the possibility that significant others in relationships with addicted individuals may unintentionally and subtly encourage the addictive behavior of their partners through their well-intentioned efforts to discourage the undesirable behavior (Le Poire, 1992). From social exchange and learning theory perspectives, it is argued that the paradoxical (logically contradictory) nature of the power structure within the addicted relationship places limits on the types of control strategies that addicts' partners can utilize in their attempts to extinguish their partners' substance dependent behavior (Le Poire). This investigation has three long-term goals. First it will explore the types and pattern of interpersonal influence attempts utilized in the environment of the relationship over the long term (macro-level strategies) to examine the contention that partners cycle from reinforcing (nurturing) behavior prior to labelling their spouses' substance-dependent behavior problematic to punishment following the labelling. back to a mix of reinforcing and punishing communication (thereby unintentionally strengthening the behavior they may be trying to extinguish). Second. it will explore the types and examine the effectiveness of verbal and nonverbal control strategies utilized during micro-management of conversations in addicted couples with the expectation that these couples will rely most on indirect nonverbal strategies over the more direct verbal strategies and (2) non- addicted partners using more consistent reinforcing and punishing communication will be more effective in their persuasive attempts. Finally, this research will result in the development of a communication training program designed to educate partners of substance dependent individuals concerning communication patterns which would be the most beneficial in terms of recovery of their partners and in maintenance of their own mental health.
