The subjects in the study sample comprised LTAAs and age and gender comparable NACs (statistical comparison indicated no significant age difference between groups). Each experimental group consisted of 23 females and 25 males aged 35 to 58 (mean = 46.3, SD = 6.8). LTAA subjects were selected for the study only if they met DSM-IV (American Psychiatric Association, 2000) criteria for alcohol dependence and had been abstinent for at least six months. NACs participants were recruited if they did not meet lifetime criteria for alcohol abuse or dependence, had a lifetime drinking average of less than 30 drinks/mo and never drank more than 60 drinks/mo.
