ABSTRACT
Although alcohol dependence may be influenced by genetic factors, psychosocial factors also play a significant role in its development. The present study clarifies the effects of the psychosocial and environmental factors that contribute to alcoholism. The study includes: (1) a case study on twin patients; (2) genetic and/or environmental analysis on twins' drinking behaviors; and (3) an analysis of twins' lifestyles, focusing on drinking behavior. It is sugested that positive adjustment of the milieu surrounding the patient is essential and effective for both the treatment and prevention of alcohol dependence.
