In this chapter, we first survey research related to general cognitive competencies and deficiencies in alcoholism, and the broad areas of brain involvement. This is followed by a review of five principal profiles of alcoholism-related neuropsychological functions: memory, executive functions, emotion and psychosocial skills, visuospatial cognition, and psychomotor abilities. Our review of the evidence indicates that while certain features of these functions are impaired, other aspects may be spared or recovered. The research has employed diverse neuropsychological and behavioral assessment procedures, as well as measures of brain structure and function. We begin our review by addressing some concerns regarding the selection of research participants and the tests used to study them. Attention to methodology is important, because variations and inconsistencies among studies can lead to discordant findings and conclusions. We also consider problems related to assessing impaired, spared, and recovered functions. Ultimately, our objective is to reveal areas for future research and to inform clinical strategies in the treatment of alcoholism.
