Perception

Perception can be defined as the way an individual thinks, understands and interprets their world.

This is pertinent in alcohol and other drug addiction treatment as denial of reality is one of the main characteristics of this illness. What this means is that the client’s awareness of events has been severely distorted and diminished by their addiction.

As long as the client is allowed to continue in their denial, they will believe that the problem is not as severe as it is, and therefore will be unable to recognise the need to make the necessary changes to stop using alcohol, drugs, food, sex etc.