A perspective on the search for the causes of alcoholism: Slow down the rush to genetical judgements

A general consensus in the debate on the causes of alcoholism has long been an elusive goal. Although the familial nature of the disorder has been obvious, familial aggregations are consistent with both environmental and genetic modes of transmission. This paper reviews recent evidence suggesting that alcoholism is a heterogeneous disorder resulting from multiple genetic and/or environmental determinants in different vulnerable populations. Within this context, recent findings of an allelic association between a gene coding for the D₂ dopamine receptor and the presence of alcoholism are unlikely to reflect a widespread etiological relationship. More generally, a rush to monolithic genetical judgements appears premature in light of current studies demonstrating the multifactorial and heterogeneous nature of alcoholism.