The findings of this study are also informative. Whether examined at the univariate or multivariate levels of analysis, findings reveal different predictive patterns for risk and protective factors at each stage of development (see Table 2). Both risk factors and R/S variables were significant predictors of the first stage, years to initiation of drinking. However, no risk factors were significant at the second stage of development (onset to at-risk drinking) even though many R/S variables continued to be significant. This pattern was reversed in the final stage when the effect of R/S variables was minimal and every risk factor accelerated development of AD. Considerable variation was evident across these stages for both risk and protective variables. Most notable was the strength of R/S factors at Stage II and their role in delaying progression while, at the same time, there was an absence of influence from the risk factors. Thus, Stage II appeared to provide an important window of opportunity for intervention in the natural course of AD disorder.
