[Clinical neuropsychological investigation and personality assessment in alcohol abuse]

In Norway, clinical neuropsychology is approved as an exclusive speciality in psychology. Clinical neuropsychological assessment is a well-proven method for which thorough validation studies and international norms are available. The method has a clear application in the assessment of dysfunctions and resources of alcohol-dependent inpatients. Cross-national comparisons show that neuropsychological findings are fairly consistent for alcohol-abusing individuals. A neuropsychological frame of reference is essential for secondary prevention among important groups. Some areas of central interest include alcohol and drug abuse among the elderly, occupational exposure to solvents, impulsiveness and violence, residual Attention Deficit Disorders, HIV/AIDS conditions, and other neuropsychiatric conditions.