Alcoholism may be defined as a chronic condition marked by a progressive incapacity to control alcohol consumption despite psychological, spiritual, social, or physiological life disruptions. Loss of control may be viewed as the diagnostic hallmark of alcoholism. During the early stage, loss of control is characterized by a growing physiological tolerance and overt symptoms are lacking. The middle stage is characterized by predrinking behaviors, increased attempts at controlling drinking, some guilt, and attempts to blame others or identify the problem as depression or stress-related. As alcoholism progresses, family relationships suffer and the individual may experience blackouts. Employment is usually last to be affected. In the final stage, the individual may drink in the morning, frequently overdrinks, goes on prolonged binges, and experiences hospitalizations, job loss, delusional thinking, and withdrawal symptoms. A variety of formal instruments are available for assessing alcoholism. These include the Mortimer-Filkins Test (Court Procedures for Identifying Problem Drinkers) and the Michigan Alcoholism Screening Test. Two informal and quick assessments include four questions related to control, anger, guilt, and the use of morning drinks (eyeopeners) or the 12-item questionnaire found in the Alcoholics Anonymous pamphlet, 'Is AA for You?' 21 references.