The Severity of Alcohol Dependence Questionnaire: Its Use, Reliability and Validity

TLDR

The clinical value of assessing alcohol dependence is discussed in relation to treatment goals, and the use, reliability, and validity of the SADQ instrument are described. Norms for SADQ scores from three problem‑drinker samples are presented, and construct validity is demonstrated by linking scores to narrowing of drinking repertoire. SADQ scores show consistently high test‑retest reliability, low but significant correlations with withdrawal severity, no correlation with liver function, and are concluded to be a quick, reliable, and valid instrument.

Abstract

Summary The clinical value of assessing degree of alcohol dependence is discussed in relation to goals of treatment. Further information is then provided on the use, reliability and validity of an instrument designed for this purpose ‐the SADQ. ‘Norms’ for SADQ scores from three samples of problem drinkers are given. Data indicating that individual items, sections and also the total scores of the SADQ have consistently high test‐retest reliability coefficients are presented. A study is described in which a degree of construct validity is established by relating SADQ scores to one important component of the alcohol dependence syndrome [2]‐narrowing of drinking repertoire. In addition, it is shown that SADQ scores have low, but significant, correlations with indicators of withdrawal severity for individuals treated at a Detoxification Unit. SADQ scores failed to correlate with indices of liver functioning. These results are discussed and it is concluded the SADQ is a quick, reliable and valid instrument.