Familial alcoholism: family, twin adoption and high risk studies

The nature-nurture question in the etiology of alcoholism is discussed. The research results from twin and adoption studies indicate a considerable genetic (= biological) component in the etiology of alcoholism. A longitudinal high risk study of alcoholism is presented. The sons of alcoholic men and matched controls have been followed prospectively since before birth. The main results from previous phases of the study and a recent 30-year follow-up assessment are presented.