population. Another limitation is the absence of data that would permit testing for mediating effects of low initial level of response to ethanol (Schuckit et al., 1997) and social modeling of drinking behavior. Finally, our family history measures, though highly reliable, were based on respondent report rather than direct ascertainment in family members. Respondents may not have known the full extent of their family history, and birth cohort and cultural factors may have influenced recognition or willingness to report positive family histories. Moreover, reporting of family history may have been greater among respondents with manifestations of the same disorders (Kendler et al., 1991; Rice et al., 1995).
