Family history of alcoholism, youthful antisocial behavior and problem drinking among DWI offenders

This study assessed the impact of family history of alcoholism and antisocial behavior on problem drinking among male first-time DWI offenders. A sample of 123 men in DWI classes were assessed on demographic factors, antisocial behavior and family history of alcoholism. Also, measures of current and past drinking problems were assessed, including scales of perceived ability to control consumption, degree of physical dependence, occurrence of alcohol-related problems and preoccupation with alcohol. The results indicated that while family history of alcohol and antisocial behavior were not significantly related to quantity/frequency of alcohol consumption or alcohol-related problems, family history was related to drink duration. Main effects of family history and antisocial behavior were found for preoccupation with alcohol and physical dependence. There was a significant interaction with respect to perceived ability to control drinking. Results are discussed with regard to the implication that family history of alcoholism and antisocial behavior may influence the development of important precursors to alcoholism.