Reliability and discriminant validity of the Type I/II and Type A/B alcoholic subtype classifications in untreated problem drinkers: a test of the Apollonian-Dionysian hypothesis

The present study tested the hypothesis that there are two broad groups of problem drinkers: the Apollonian-Dionysian distinction. Apollonian drinkers are defined by a later onset of alcohol problems, a slower developmental c ourse, and less problem severity. Dionysian drinkers are defined by more se vere alcohol problems, an earlier onset. and worse prognosis. The discrimin ant validity and classification agreement of five operations of the Apollon ian-Dionysian model were tested in a general population (n = 8643) and comm unity sample (n = 664). A kappa -means cluster analysis supported the Apoll onian-Dionysian distinction. Dionysian problem drinkers were more likely to be males, report greater alcohol consumption, more alcohol related antisoc ial behavior, have a current DSM-IV alcohol dependence diagnosis. and comor bid depression. Apollonian problem drinkers were more prevalent in the gene ral population and reported less severe drinking problems. Classification a greement was stronger for subtype models that incorporate dimensions of alc ohol use and/or the frequency of negative consequences. Babor's Type A-Type B model demonstrated the strongest reliability and consistency over time. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.