Field dependence in alcoholics: relation to years of drinking, severity of alcohol dependence and emotional distress

A number of factors were evaluated as predictors of field dependence (Embedded-Figures Test score) in alcoholics. In our sample, duration of excessive drinking and symptomatology of alcohol dependence were significantly related to the level of field dependence. These results fail to corroborate earlier findings and suggest that heightened field dependence in alcoholics is, at least partly, a consequence of alcohol misuse. In addition, a strong relationship was detected between the alcoholics' degree of anxiety and their degree of alcohol dependence. Possible bases for such a relationship are discussed.