5.2.1 Slips vs Relapses - Know the Difference

Use the abstinence violation effect framework to prevent lapse escalation

Marlatt's abstinence violation effect (AVE) describes the cognitive-emotional cascade following a lapse: internal attribution ('I'm weak'), loss of perceived control, and guilt - all of which predict full relapse.¹² Clinical intervention at this point should focus on external, unstable, specific attributions ('the situation was hard, I was caught off guard, I can handle it differently next time'). Normalizing the lapse within the TTM framework and rapidly re-engaging the patient in their coping plan can interrupt the AVE cycle within hours.