The physical, social, and psychological problems associated with alcohol and drug abuse affect all levels of society and are extremely costly. However, compared with the considerable research and recent advances in exploring the nature of drug dependence, there has been less attention given to the nature and causes of the resulting problems. For example, why the effects of alcohol should be more devastating in the young, or more prevalent in the socially disadvantaged, or the extent to which one can infer that drugs cause crime, are important theoretical and practical questions. This volume compiles a unique collection of papers prepared by internationally distinguished experts in the addictions field, focusing on the practical and research issues surrounding alcohol and drug-related problems. The principal strength of the resulting analysis lies in the broad multidisciplinary perspective afforded by participants from the fields of sociology, psychology, philosophy, epidemiology, and medicine. This authoritative volume examines the extent as well as to the limitations of the current state of knowledge in this increasingly important field. It will provide a valuable reference source for both professionals and students, and will establish a solid base for future research in alcohol and drug-related problems.