Constituents of craving in a clinical alcohol sample

Abstract

Purpose: Craving describes a subjective state, and it remains unclear what people mean when they use the term. However, as with many other subjective states, craving should be able to be described by those who experience it. Methods: To try to understand the descriptors and constituents of craving, 213 clients appearing for treatment for alcohol use disorders were asked to rate the frequency of the occurrence over the past 30 days of a number of events and states that have been historically regarded as part of craving. These clients were also asked to rate the frequency with which they had experienced craving and urges over the same period. Using discriminant function analysis (DFA), some states were elucidated that separated those who reported craving from those who did not. Results and implications: Those who reported craving consistently reported the occurrence of more dysphoric states, more of certain physical feelings associated with thoughts of alcohol, more thoughts of alcohol, and desiring alcohol when confronted with environmental cues. Such descriptions may aid in establishing reliable criteria for understanding the constituents of craving.