The present study findings are also relevant to the incentive-sensitization theory of addiction.89–91 This theory posits that sensitization and crucial neuroadaptations within mesolimbic dopamine systems92,93 may underlie the motivational reward properties (wanting) of a drug, but not the hedonic reward value (liking) of the drug, in persons with substance dependence. However, in this study, we observed that among nondependent HD, both motivational and hedonic aspects of reward were associated with increased frequency of binge drinking over time. Interestingly, in composite prediction models, wanting more alcohol during the ascending and descending limbs of the BrAC curve predicted subsequent binge drinking during follow-up. We may speculate that early in a binge drinking episode, alcohol may elicit heightened desire for alcohol, leading to impaired control and continued drinking. As modeled in this acute administration paradigm, abrupt cessation of drinking results in a sharp decrease in stimulation and liking, with sustained wanting that may underlie desire for further drinking to offset reduction of hedonic effects. Although acute responses to the high alcohol dose producing peak BrACs of 0.08% to 0.09% were more informative than
