Until the 1960’s, typology theory—including Jellinek’s work—was guided primarily by armchair intuition and clinical observation. With the development of better measurement techniques and research methods, however, empirical research on typologies gained momentum. Several studies using this approach indicated that alcoholic subtypes defined by single dimensions could indeed be differentiated in predictable ways on a variety of other dimensions (see Babor and Dolinsky 1988).

• This group has the highest rate of seeking treatment from a private health care provider but also often choose self-help groups, specialty treatment programs, and detox programs.
• It is essential to develop a thorough understanding of alcoholism and its various manifestations in order to provide appropriate support and treatment.
• The information we provide is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
• Not all individuals struggling with alcoholism experience the same patterns of behavior or respond to treatment in the same way.

Alcoholism is a complex and multifaceted disorder that affects individuals from all walks of life. It is essential to develop a thorough understanding of alcoholism and its various manifestations in order to provide appropriate support and treatment. This section will explore what alcoholism is and highlight the importance of identifying different types of alcoholics. Chronic Severe Alcoholics exhibit a high level of addiction severity, with their alcohol use deeply ingrained in their daily lives.

Intermediate Familial Subtype:

It is easy to understand how many young adults could meet the criteria for alcoholism but fail to seek treatment because their behavior has been normalized. In conclusion, understanding the different types of alcoholics is an important step in addressing the complex issue of alcoholism. Whether you or someone you know is struggling with alcoholism, there is hope and help available.

“Clinicians have long recognized diverse manifestations of alcoholism,” adds NIAAA Director Ting-Kai Li, M.D, “and researchers have tried to understand why some alcoholics improve with specific medications and psychotherapies while others do not. The classification system described in this study will have broad application in both clinical and research settings.” A report of the study is now available online in the journal Drug and Alcohol Dependence. An alcoholic is someone who has developed an alcohol dependence and is experiencing physical and psychological cravings, tolerance, and withdrawal symptoms when trying to cut down or quit. People with ASPD are 21 times more likely to develop alcohol dependence in their lifetimes. Meanwhile, alcohol is more likely to increase aggressive behaviors in people with ASPD than in people without.

What is Considered an Alcoholic?

However, these individuals are likely to have already been drinking for a long period, perhaps since they were very young, and this alone can cause serious health issues later in life. Similar to the previous type of alcoholic, individuals in this category are often of similar age, around their young to mid-twenties. The following subparagraphs outline these five types of alcoholism, highlighting five types of alcoholics how they differ from one another and the origins and/or reasons for the development of this disorder. In the case of significant alcohol dependence, medical detox and medications are often necessary in addition to therapeutic treatment methods. Highly trained professionals can guide families and loved ones into a treatment program that will be optimal for enhancing a sustained recovery.

We understand that seeking treatment for alcohol addiction can be a difficult decision, and we provide a supportive environment for individuals to begin their journey toward recovery. Treatment for the Intermediate https://ecosoberhouse.com/ Familial Subtype of AUD may include medication-assisted treatment, therapy, and participation in support groups. Family members may also play a significant role in supporting their loved ones through recovery.

Chronic Severe Subtype:

This category is also likely to consume high levels of alcohol within a short period, although they drink less frequently than others. This category is more likely to seek treatment, with more than 35 percent of these individuals having pursued treatment for alcoholism. These alcoholics mostly seek treatment through private health care providers, self-help groups, detox programs, and specialty treatment programs. Around 31.5 percent of alcoholics fall into this subtype, which is by far the largest single group.

When they do seek treatment, they’re more likely to attend a 12-step group or seek treatment from private health care professionals. That’s exactly what happened to ABC news anchor Elizabeth Vargas, a functional alcoholic who sought treatment for an alcohol addiction in 2014 after years of trying to hide her drinking. They also have the highest divorce rates, with 25.1% divorced, 8.6% separated and only 28.7% married. Only 9% have a college degree, and they also have the lowest employment rate. Only 43% of chronic severe alcoholics are employed full-time and 7.6% are unemployed or permanently disabled. Since the causes of alcoholism vary from person to person, the best treatment for one might not work for the next.

Treatment and Recovery Patterns

These types have different signs to look for and likelihoods of seeking treatment for their alcohol use disorder. Identifying different types of alcoholics is crucial for tailoring effective treatment approaches and interventions. Not all individuals struggling with alcoholism experience the same patterns of behavior or respond to treatment in the same way. By recognizing the distinct subtypes of alcoholics, healthcare professionals and caregivers can provide targeted support that addresses the unique needs of each individual. Unlike the previous type, this group is defined by the co-occurrence of mental disorders. They come from families where alcohol dependency may be common, leading to early exposure and abuse.

• Moreover, the societal and financial impact of alcoholism can be significant and may result in loss of employment, financial difficulties, and relationship problems.
• However, these individuals are likely to have already been drinking for a long period, perhaps since they were very young, and this alone can cause serious health issues later in life.
• Multiple different reasons can spur someone to drink until they’ve become dependent on alcohol.
• Dependency on alcohol begins around the age of 20 years when drinking becomes more regular but, the average age for alcohol dependency is 25 years.