The Efficacy of Transactional Analysis as a Community-Based Intervention for Substance Use Disorder

Abstract This study examines the effectiveness of transactional analysis (TA) as a recovery support for substance users with mild to moderate substance use disorders (SUD). A modified version of a 12-session TA program was implemented for 3 months. There were 25 participants who took part during the sessions. The findings revealed a significant treatment impact in reducing psychological distress and drug craving across all sub-elements, including intensity of craving, frequency of craving, duration of craving, and number of times of craving (p < .05). Over the course of the sessions, the frequency of lapses decreased. The findings indicate that TA is helpful in the recovery of those with SUD, especially by strengthening the Adult ego state and changing the stroking pattern and life position of individuals. Further research directions might include a follow-up study after the program, more attention to stress management, and the role of the Parent ego state. One implication of this study might be that providing a framework for a TA psychotherapy in the treatment interventions for individuals with SUD is useful.