Our analyses with drinking characteristics allowed us to elucidate some of the potential mechanisms of group differences between alcohol-dependent and healthy adults. Although we were limited somewhat by not having collected similar data from healthy participants, we were able to investigate the altered frontostriatal function within the alcohol dependent group in greater depth. Our study design did not focus on relapse or on the association of abstinence symptoms with frontostriatal function, but detailed examination of these issues will be worthwhile for future studies. In addition, the individual differences associated with the likelihood and timing of relapse could be a fruitful topic for investigations of the pathophysiology and course of alcohol dependence.
