EEG identification of subgroups of men at risk for alcoholism?

Biological sons of male alcoholics constitute one group at high risk (HR) for the development of alcoholism, and were the subjects of this study. A low dose of alcohol (0.5 g/kg) was administered to HR and control subjects. On the basis of changes in the electroencephalographic (EEG) mean alpha frequency that occurred following alcohol administration, two HR subgroups were identified. Measures obtained after alcohol administration, comprising self-ratings and an observer's assessment, distinguished the HR subgroups and control subjects; measures of visuomotor performance did not. The findings are discussed in relation to two current etiological theories bearing on the development of alcoholism: a biopsychological perspective and an initial tolerance for alcohol effects.