Enhanced Interpretation of Nonverbal Cues in Male Cocaine Abusers

Abstract

Chronic alcoholics have been known to possess increased ability to interpret nonverbal facial cues. This has been hypothesized to account for the high rate of alcohol recidivism. Since cocainism is also associated with a high rate of recidivism, the authors examined nonverbal reception in twenty-five cocaine abusers and in an equal number of matched controls. All subjects were asked to view videotapes of individuals gambling and to determine, solely on the basis of facial cues, the size of the jackpot at risk during a specific trial. The cocaine abusers were found to be more accurate at interpreting nonverbal cues. Possible reasons for this finding are discussed.