The relationship of alcohol withdrawal experiences to impaired cognitive function.

Abstract

The relationship of prior alcohol withdrawal experiences to current cognitive impairment was assessed in 110 men alcoholics (mean age 45). Their scores on the Prior Alcohol Withdrawal Scale were significantly related to scores on the Prior Craving Experience Scale, the Autonomic Perception Scale and the Embedded Figures Test. Responses of an additional group of 12 alcoholics and 12 age-matched nonalcoholics were compared. Alcoholics had significantly higher scores on the draving and withdrawal scales and showed greater field dependency and heightened autonomic perception.