Adolescents between 14 and 18 years of age were assessed between 1987 and 1991 and as young adults between 1993 and 1999. During the 1995-1998 period, parents were assessed for lifetime AUD. Adolescents and parents were classified as the non-problematic alcohol use (NON), problem drinkers (PROB) who had symptoms of AUD but no diagnosis, and the AUD group. Results showed adolescent AUD significantly predicted AUD, substance use disorder, depression, and elevated levels of anti-social and borderline personality disorder symptoms by 24 years of age. Compared to the NON group, adolescents in the PROB group were at increased risk for AUD, depression, and anti-social personality disorder symptoms. However, the PROB group had lower rates of future AUD and anti-social personality disorder symptoms than the adolescent AUD group. Gender interactions were not significant. Daily smoking and conduct/oppositional defiant disorders predicted future AUD when adolescent AUD and other disorders were controlled. Paternal, but not maternal, AUD was associated with greater risk of future AUD. The authors conclude that, for most adolescents, AUD is not a benign condition that resolves over time. They discuss assessment, treatment, and prevention recommendations. 42 references and 2 tables