The content of the book is derived from direct clinical work with alcoholic patients whom the authors evaluated and/or treated. Each patient completed extensive psychologic testing and clinical interviewing. Three patients were actual involved in weekly individual or group psychotherapy for 4 to 6 months. All offenders had been alcohol or drug dependent for a minimum of 5 years before being evaluated and/or treated. Four subjects were clearly polydrug dependent and had extended histories of physical and psychological dependence on such drugs as amphetamines, marijuana, inhalants, barbiturates, minor tranquilizers, and cocaine. The analysis shows that alcoholism and various patterns of alcohol and drug abuse are associated with a multiplicity of social, personal, health, and legal problems. Alcoholism and drug abuse are causatively related to acts of homicide and violence, suicide and emotional illness, criminal behavior, marital and family discord, unwanted pregnancy and abortion, and an overwhelmed legal system. Alcoholics and alcohol abusers can be successfully treated. Likewise, many violent or homicidal alcoholics and polydrug abusers manifest the capacity for successful treatment and rehabilitation before they commit homicide or other violent acts. Many alcoholic homicide offenders can also be successfully treated, since the recidivist nature of alcohol and drug facilitated violent and homicidal behavior can be significantly modified. 317 references