trol or social complications arising from alcohol use (Partanen, et. al., 1966). These findings suggest that while a propensity for alcoholism is inherited in many cases, the degree to which it affects the life of an individual remains unaffected by biology. A later twin study, conducted in Sweden and reported in 1987 also studied only male pairs but in this case the twins were adopted into non-relative families at a young age. This split-twin study allowed researchers to determine to a greater extent the importance of environmental exposure in regards to alcoholism. In this study it was found that children who had no history of alcoholism in their biological backgrounds were in relatively little danger of becoming alcoholic. This remained true whether or not they were raised in alcoholic environments. The environment did not hold much influence on the other side of the spectrum either, as children from alcoholic biological origins tended to become alcoholics as well regardless of their adoptive homes (Steen, 1996). Taking into account the inherent problems of twin studies these results are nonetheless highly suggestive of a very strong correlation between heredity and alcoholism. Biological MarkersEfforts have been made to find a biological or genetic marker that will indicate a person’s increased chances for becoming an alcoholic. Color blindness, ABO blood groups, C3 and Ss systems and taste sensitivity to phenylthiocarbamide have all been examined as possible markers but were determined to be ineffective. Color blindness is related but turns out to be often caused by liver damage resulting from heavy drinking.A report that may have merit to it suggests a linkage of alcoholism and non-secretion of ABH blood group substances in saliva (Gurling and Murray, 1980). Different studies have found conflicting results with attempts to identify other biological markers. One researcher found a high incidence of alcoholism in bl...
