Previous studies report differences in the magnitude of fast (>19 Hz) beta EEG among individuals with alcohol use disorders (AUD)4–6,15,16,17 and related problems (that is, SUD, ADHD). Further, fast beta EEG was superior to the severity of illness, major depression and conduct problems in predicting relapse in abstinent individuals with a history of AUD.5,17,18 As elevated beta EEG is present in the offspring of alcoholics prior to the onset of risky drinking,4,15,19,20 researchers have hypothesized that excess beta power precedes the development of AUD and is likely related to an underlying genetic predisposition for developing AUD, rather than a consequence of heavy drinking. Begleiter and Porjesz4 have suggested that this may be an electrophysiological index of an imbalance in the excitation–inhibition homeostasis in the cortex, which underlies a predisposition to develop AUD and related disorders.4,14,20 Further supporting this hypothesis is the association of beta EEG and other disorders characterized by behavioral disinhibition: externalizing behavior in children19 and adolescents,7 ADHD,10,21,22 internet addiction,8,9 and binge drinking in emerging adults.23
