How would you define "alcoholism"? Write a brief definition. Based on this conceptualization, describe a method of measurement that would be valid for a study of alcoholism (alcoholism as you define it). Now go to the Center of Alcohol Studies (CAS) and read their "Definition of Alcoholism" at http://www.ncadd.org/facts/defalc.html.
What is the definition of alcoholism used by the National Council on Alcohol and Drug Dependence (NCADD)? How is "alcoholism" conceptualized? Based on this conceptualization, give an example of one method that would be a valid measurement in a study of alcoholism.
Now look at some of the other related links accessible from the CAS and NCADD Web sites. What are some of the different conceptualizations of alcoholism that you find? How does the chosen conceptualization affect one's choice of methods of measurement?

What are the latest findings about student substance abuse from the Harvard School of Public Health? Check out http://www.researchmatters.harvard.edu/program.php?program_id=423 and write up a brief report.

A list of different measures of substance abuse is available at a site maintained by the National Institute on Alcoholism and Alcohol Abuse (http://pubs.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/Assesing%20Alcohol/quickref.htm). Instrument "fact sheets" can be obtained at http://pubs.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/Assesing%20Alcohol/factsheets.htm, and there is a lengthy discussion of the various self-report instruments for alcohol problem screening among adults at http://pubs.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/Assesing%20Alcohol/connors.pdf (Connors & Volk 2004). Read the Connors and Volk article, and pick two of the instruments they discuss (Connors & Volk 2004:27–32). What concept of substance abuse is reflected in each measure? Is either measure multidimensional? What do you think the relative advantages of each measure 04-Schutt5e(4853).qxd 12/22/2005 11:50 AM Page 130 might be? What evidence is provided about their reliability and validity? What other test of validity would you suggest?