In this treatment sample, using data from 11 years after treatment entry we found that non-problem use is not an optimal 1 year outcome for those in abstinence-oriented treatment. Future research should examine whether these results are found in harm reduction treatment and self-help models, or in those with less severe problems. Longitudinal research examining new theories for how some non-problem drinkers maintain remission is also needed. Possible explanations to explore may address how these individuals cope with life events that others have more difficulty negotiating, or how motivation is maintained over time.
