A validation study of the alcohol dependence scale.

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry and Behavioral Science
• Clinical Psychology
• Addiction Research

Background:

• The Alcohol Dependence Scale (ADS) is a widely used measure for assessing alcohol dependence.
• Understanding the underlying factor structure of the ADS is crucial for its accurate interpretation and application.
• Previous research has suggested various factor structures for the ADS, necessitating further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comprehensively assess the underlying factor structure of the Alcohol Dependence Scale (ADS).
• To evaluate the concurrent validity of the total ADS and its derived subscales with alcohol dependence-related variables.
• To assess the validity of two proposed reduced-item ADS measures.

Main Methods:

• Factor analyses (exploratory and confirmatory) were conducted on ADS responses from participants in two large randomized clinical trials (COMBINE and Project MATCH).
• Participants met Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, criteria for alcohol dependence.
• Validity coefficients were obtained to assess the relationship between ADS scores and other relevant measures.

Main Results:

• A correlated, three-factor solution was supported across samples, representing loss of behavioral control/heavy drinking, obsessive-compulsive drinking style, and withdrawal symptoms.
• The ADS total score and subscales demonstrated significant relationships with measures of dependence severity, craving, temptation, confidence in abstinence, drinking patterns, and negative alcohol-related consequences.
• The 12-item reduced ADS measure showed validity coefficients comparable to the full 25-item scale.

Conclusions:

• The findings support a three-factor structure for the ADS, confirming its reliability and validity in assessing alcohol dependence.
• The 12-item reduced ADS measure is a valid and potentially more efficient alternative to the full scale.
• These results enhance the utility of the ADS in clinical and research settings for evaluating alcohol dependence.