The relationship between alcohol dependence and alcohol–related problems in a clinical population

Abstract

The relationship between alcohol dependence and alcohol-related problems was studied in a group of 103 problem drinkers. Responses to a 46-item Alcohol Problems Questionnaire (APQ) were compared with the Severity of Alcohol Dependence Questionnaire (SADQ), alcohol consumption and demographic data. A strongly positive correlation was found between aggregate problems and dependence scores (r = 0.63; p = 0.001) which existed independently of the quantity of alcohol consumed. Analysis of questionnaire subscales revealed that certain problem domains were more closely related to particular aspects of dependence than others. A higher level of problems was found in subjects of younger age and lower socio-economic class. No significant sex differences were found. The implications of these findings are discussed.

Progressive stage transition does mean getting better: a further test of the Transtheoretical Model in recovery from alcohol problems

“…54.1% were in a current relationship. The sample showed a moderate to severe level of dependence [23] and a slightly above average level of alcohol-related problems for a British treatment sample [24]. Follow-up rates were 93% at three months and 83% at twelve months.…”

A revised edition of the Readiness to Change Questionnaire [Treatment Version]

“…Mean score on the Leeds Dependence Questionnaire (Raistrick et al, 1994) was 17.0 (95% CI = 15.9-18.2), indicating a moderate to severe level of dependence in the sample as a whole (see Heather et al, 2001). Mean score on the APQ was 12.3 (95% CI = 11.7-=12.9), indicating a slightly above average level of alcohol-related problems for a British treatment sample (Drummond, 1990).…”

“…Assessment also included interviewer-led recording of socio-demographic information and alcohol consumption by means of Form 90I (Miller, 1996) which permitted the calculation of the primary outcome variables, percent days abstinent (PDA) to record frequency of drinking and drinks per drinking day (DDD) to record intensity of drinking. The self-completion Alcohol Problems Questionnaire (APQ: Drummond, 1990) was included as a measure of alcohol-related problems and the Negative Alcohol Expectancy Questionnaire (NAEQ: McMahon & Jones, 1993) as a measure of alcohol outcome expectancies.…”

Assessment and management of alcohol dependence and withdrawal in the acute hospital: concise guidance

“…• Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) for identification and as a routine outcome measure (Fig 1) • Severity of Alcohol Dependence Questionnaire (SADQ) (Fig 2) 13 or Leeds Dependency Questionnaire (LDQ) 9 for severity of dependence • Clinical Institute Withdrawal Assessment of Alcohol Scale, revised (CIWA-Ar) 10 for severity of withdrawal • Alcohol Problems Questionnaire (APQ) 11 for the nature and extent of the problems arising from alcohol misuse. 2 When assessing the severity of alcohol dependence and determining the need for assisted withdrawal, adjust the criteria for women, older people, children and young people, and people with established liver disease who might have problems with the metabolism of alcohol.…”