Reliability and validity of the German version of the European Addiction Severity Index (EuropASI)

This study provides data on the psychometric characteristics of the German version of the European Addiction Severity Index (EuropASI). The ASI is a frequently used clinical and research instrument that measures problem severity among people with substance dependence.

The German ASI was used in a sample of 112 consecutively admitted male psychiatric inpatients seeking treatment for severe alcohol problems. The conceptual structure of the German ASI subscales was investigated by analyzing the intercorrelations of the severity ratings and composite scores. Internal consistency, interrater reliability and concurrent validity in terms of correlations with other assessment instruments were evaluated.

The German ASI subscales proved to be independent or moderately correlated (-0.17 < r < 0.34). Each correlation coefficient between corresponding severity ratings and composite scores was significant (p < .0005), ranging from r = 0.47 to r = 0.93. Reliability measures indicated moderate to good internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha: 0.69-0.92) and moderate to excellent interrater reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient: 0.62-0.99). Validity was supported by significantly higher ratings in the alcohol section in alcohol dependent patients compared to patients without dependence (t = 2.99, 108 df, p = .004). Significant correlations (p < .001) were found between the alcohol use section and the Michigan Alcoholism Screening Test (r = 0.34 composite score and r = 0.44 severity rating) and between psychiatric status and the Symptom Checklist-90-revised (r = 0.55/0.51), supporting concurrent validity.

The German version presented evidence of acceptable psychometric properties and its applicability in German-speaking countries could be confirmed.