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The Preoccupation with Alcohol Scale: development and validation
K E Leonard1, M K Harwood, H T Blane
1Research Institute on Alcoholism, New York State Division of Alcoholism and Alcohol Abuse, Buffalo 14203.
Alcoholism, Clinical and Experimental Research
|June 1, 1988
Summary
This study developed a reliable Preoccupation with Alcohol Scale (PAS) for young, heavy drinkers. Higher PAS scores correlate with increased alcohol use, intoxication, and alcohol-related problems, suggesting it
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Addiction Research
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Heavy alcohol consumption in young men is a public health concern.
- Understanding cognitive-behavioral factors associated with drinking patterns is crucial for intervention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a psychometrically sound measure of preoccupation with alcohol.
- To investigate the relationship between alcohol preoccupation and drinking behaviors in young, heavy-drinking men.
Main Methods:
- Development of the Preoccupation with Alcohol Scale (PAS).
- Data collection from a sample of 67 young, heavy-drinking males.
- Cross-validation using a separate sample.
Main Results:
- The PAS demonstrated substantial internal consistency.
- Higher PAS scores were significantly associated with greater alcohol consumption and intoxication frequency.
- PAS scores predicted alcohol problems independently of consumption levels.
Conclusions:
- The PAS is a reliable measure for assessing alcohol preoccupation.
- Alcohol preoccupation may serve as a cognitive-behavioral risk factor for severe alcohol problems and alcoholism.