Effect of motivational enhancement therapy on the self-efficacy and locus of control of patients with alcohol dependence

ABSTRACT Background: Motivational enhancement therapy (MET) is a client-centered approach that guides individuals in recognizing and resolving their uncertainties about making personal changes, and having self-efficacy is crucial as it acts as a safeguard against relapses. Personality traits and locus of control are identified as significant factors in the realm of drug addiction and misuse, which further affects treatment and relapse. Aim: To study the efficacy of MET on the self-efficacy and locus of control of patients with alcohol dependence. Materials and Methods: A sample of 30 patients with alcohol dependence fulfilling the ICD-10 criteria were selected from the Department of Psychiatry of a tertiary care hospital attached to a medical college and a private clinic in Bhopal, MP, for the study. The age range of the sample was 25–45 years based on the purposive sampling method. The study was pre- and post-intervention. Initially, a socio-demographic data sheet was filled to know the self-efficacy, and Locus of Control Scales were administered. After pre-assessment, MET sessions were introduced to the patients. A total of 15 sessions were taken within 3 months of follow-up, and after follow-up, an assessment was conducted to see the outcome of MET sessions. Results: The result shows improvement in self-efficacy and change in locus of control after the MET sessions. Conclusion: MET is effective in decreasing ambivalence and hence improving the self-efficacy of the patient, which may prevent the patient from relapse.