Factor Structure of the Addiction Severity Index in an Inpatient Detoxification Sample

This study examines the factor structure of the Addiction Severity Index for a clinical sample of 190 males in an inpatient detoxification unit at a Veterans Administration hospital. Factor analysis revealed a four-factor solution rather than the six-factor solution originally suggested. These four factors (accounting for 22% of the common variance) were labeled chemical addiction, criminality, psychological distress, and health-related problems. Overall results suggest that considerably more work must be expended in developing standards for an interview schedule applicable to the chemically dependent.