In summary, studies that have investigated the resting EEG composition indicate beta band increases as a primary characteristic feature in alcoholics and HR subjects, and, less significantly, theta band increases in the alcoholics. This reactivity of beta band has also been observed in studies assessing binge drinkers. The alpha band differences in chronic alcoholism are not conclusive and remain equivocal, although alcohol challenge studies in HR and LR subjects have uncovered a reactive alpha system that tends to shift to slower frequencies (see earlier in this chapter). The evidence of elevated beta power also provides strong support for the excitation-inhibition imbalance model proposed to underlie the predisposition to alcohol dependence (Begleiter and Porjesz, 1999), and future studies are required to clarify gender differences in EEG profiles in alcoholism.
