Gender differences in factor structure of the self-administered alcoholism screening test

Abstract

Recent studies have revealed differences between men and women alcoholics in symptoms, consequences, and help-seeking behavior related to alcohol usage. Based on these findings, it was hypothesized that gender differences also would appear on alcohol screening instruments. The Self- Administered Alcoholism Screening Test (Colligan, Davis, and Morse, 1988; SAAST: Swenson and Morse, 1975) of 1,920 men and 1,775 women was subjected to a within-gender, principle-components, factor analysis with a varimax rotation. Gender differences at the component level were revealed. Men endorsed the 'help-seeking for alcohol-related problems' component while women endorsed the 'help-seeking for emotional problems' component. In addition, men expressed concern about receiving a psychiatric label while women expressed concern about receiving a drinker label. The results suggest that different items need to be used in screening women for alcohol-related problems.