What does the Michigan Alcohol Screening Test (MAST) primarily assess?

The Michigan Alcohol Screening Test (MAST) is primarily designed to assess alcohol use and identify patterns that may suggest the presence of an alcohol use disorder. It evaluates the impact of alcohol consumption on an individual’s life and functioning, making it effective in screening for obvious signs of addiction.

The test consists of a series of questions that focus on the individual’s drinking history, behaviors related to alcohol use, and the consequences that stem from their drinking. By identifying signs and issues associated with alcohol use, the MAST can help clinicians determine the severity of potential alcohol-related problems and guide the individual toward appropriate treatment options.

The other options, while important aspects in a broader assessment context, do not reflect the primary intentions of the MAST. Symptoms of depression might be assessed in a different context, as could family dynamics or employment status, but these factors are not the core focus of the MAST itself.