The primary objective of the present study is to assess the usefulness and characteristics of the DSM-IV AUD symptom criteria as reported by adolescent and adult drinkers in a single representative sample of the U.S. population ages 12 years and older. This design avoids potential confounding due to differences in survey methodology when comparing adolescents and adults from different surveys. It also allows the examination of the continuity of AUD symptom criteria within a broad developmental framework. A secondary objective is to determine symptom patterns related to gender, age, and race/ethnicity.
