| Abstract: | Objective.?This study considers the diagnostic construct validity of the DSM-IV (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual-IV) for “alcohol dependence”. Previous reports have indicated that “dependence” constitutes a more distinct and pronounced syndrome than “alcohol abuse”. Method.?Data were collected in 2000–2001 on 1340 male and female inmates evaluated for “substance use disorders” using the SUDDS-IV, a detailed structured diagnostic interview, to collect data on all of the DSM-IV diagnostic criteria for “abuse” and “dependence”. Results.?Dependent individuals tended to produce distinct and extensive symptom profiles that distinguished them from individuals without a diagnosis or those meeting abuse criteria. Conclusions.?Alcohol dependence as defined by the DSM-IV appears to be quite distinct from abuse and can be identified unequivocally for the majority of dependent cases. |
