Is the DSM-III-R category of alcohol abuse validly differentiated from
the DSM-III-R category of alcohol dependence, or is abuse primarily a mild,
prodromal condition that typically deteriorates into dependence? A 4-year
longitudinal epidemiologic study of male drinkers provided data to answer
this question. The study used identical questions at baseline and
follow-up. At follow-up, 70% of the subjects who were initially classified
as alcohol abusers were still abusers or were classified as remitted. This
contrasted significantly with outcome in the subjects who initially
reported alcohol dependence. Although additional research is needed, these
results indicate that alcohol abuse often has a course distinct from that
of alcohol dependence.Abstract Teaser