Which measure provides a quantitative assessment of alcohol dependence severity?

The Alcohol Dependence Scale (ADS) is specifically designed to provide a quantitative assessment of the severity of alcohol dependence. It consists of a series of questions that assess various aspects of an individual's alcohol use, including frequency, quantity, and the consequences related to their drinking behavior. The scale allows for scoring that reflects the degree of dependence, making it a valuable tool in both clinical and research settings.

This capability to measure the severity quantifiably distinguishes the ADS from other tools that may focus on different aspects of drinking behavior or dependencies. For example, while the Cognitive Lifetime Drinking History (CLDH) provides insights into a person’s drinking history, it does not quantify dependence severity. Similarly, the Obsessive Compulsive Drinking Scale (OCDS) measures the compulsive aspects of drinking but does not provide a comprehensive quantitative assessment of alcohol dependence. The Substance Dependence Severity Scale (SDSS) applies to various substances and may not focus exclusively on alcohol dependence, thereby lacking the specificity offered by the Alcohol Dependence Scale.

Thus, for an accurate evaluation of the severity of alcohol dependence, the ADS is the most appropriate and effective measure.