It is not surprising that regression analyses in the current data support Hypotheses 2–4, each of which have support in the literature. In both generations, denial was more common among AUD individuals who endorsed fewer DSM-IV criteria, reported lower maximum drinks, and those with alcohol abuse rather than dependence. However, the level of alcohol involvement among these deniers was not benign. Proband and offspring deniers admitted to an average of nine and 11 maximum drinks, respectively, 57% and 75% reported drinking higher quantities or for longer periods than intended, 40% and 23% admitted to using alcohol in hazardous situations, 13% and 52% reported missing important obligations because of alcohol, while 25% and 22% endorsed persistent desires or inabilities to cut down or stop drinking. This unhealthy level of drinking and life problems portend a potential for more severe future alcohol problems (Schuckit, 2018b). Several additional findings in Tables 1 and 3 were not supported in regression analyses where multiple significant characteristics were evaluated together (e.g., the SRE result and possible offspring group differences in sensation seeking).
