Evidence for a Drug Dependence Syndrome Among Narcotic Users

Summary Recent developments in international classifications of alcohol and drug‐related problems have stressed the distinction between a dependence syndrome and various drug‐related disabilities. Although considerable research has supported the concept of an alcohol dependence syndrome, little empirical work has been conducted to date with other psychoactive substances. The present study evaluated whether a dependence syndrome could be identified among a clinical sample of 105 narcotic users who had completed the drug Abuse Screening Test (DAST). A factor analysis of the 20 DAST items revealed a dependence factor characterized by an inability to slop drug use, problems in getting through the week without drugs, and withdrawal symptoms when drug use stopped. In addition, four other factors were identified reflecting social problems, medical problems, polydrug abuse and previous treatment. The dependence factor was most strongly correlated with recent use (past 60 days) of narcotics, and was not correlated with age, sex or social status.