Can alcoholism be cured? What are the most effective ways of responding to the disease? How can children of alcoholics be safeguarded? In Treating Alcoholism, Denzin addresses these critical issues. After an overview of the nature of alcoholism as an interpersonal illness, he examines different approaches to treatment: programmes offered by social workers, counsellors, nurses, psychologists, psychiatrists and Alcoholics Anonymous with respect to diagnosis, treatment, ways of coping with relapse and of promoting long-term recovery. This important book is designed for advanced students and professionals in the helping professions.