One is tempted to speculate about the relationship between this underlying neurophysiological disinhibition and the behavioral disinhibition commonly observed in alcoholics and their offspring. Studies following subjects over a period of time (i.e., longitudinal studies) consistently identify a cluster of behavioral traits that significantly predict high levels of alcohol consumption or abuse. These traits are described as disinhibited, undercontrolled, impulsive, and aggressive (Cloninger et al. 1988). Both ASPD and family history of alcoholism predispose people to alcoholism, and persons in both groups manifest low P3’s (Hesselbrock et al. 1993). The genetic predisposition for alcoholism may be caused by an increase in brain hyperexcitablity in COA’s.
