Eighty-seven male alcohol dependent subjects with an age range of 19 - 47 years (Mean = 30.12, SD = ± 4.88) and 57 male control subjects between 20 - 47 years (Mean = 29.47, SD = ± 5.36) constituted the present study. Alcoholic subjects were recruited from inpatient and outpatient treatment facilities. Controls were recruited from health maintenance organizations, driver’s license records and dental clinics. The diagnosis of alcohol dependence was made based on the DSM IV criteria for alcohol dependence. The alcohol dependent group consisted of subjects who completed the de-addiction program in the treatment centers, and were abstinent from alcohol intake for at least 28 days before the EEG recording session. Further, subjects who tested positive in the urine screen (for their recent drug use) or breathalyzer test were excluded from the study. Subjects with hepatic encephalopathy/cirrhosis of the liver, multiple sclerosis, stroke, Huntington’s disease, a history of psychosis, head injury, seizures or neurosurgical procedures were excluded. Subjects who tested positive for HIV, had uncorrected sensory deficits, or had used any psychoactive substances in the past 5 days were also excluded.
