DEVELOPMENTAL SYSTEMS-THEORY AND ALCOHOLISM - ANALYZING PATTERNS OF VARIATION IN HIGH-RISK FAMILIES

Developmental systems theory emphasizes the nonlinear, emergent, and coactive nature of system organization and change and provides an innovative approach to the study of alcohol abuse and dependence. A developmental systems approach to the study of alcohol abuse and dependence begins with an analysis of the presenting state characteristics of individual systems and proceeds through identification and explanation of the processes that regulate structural and functional intersystem relationships, emergent properties of new levels of organization, transitions across system boundaries, and state changes. Data from the Michigan State University-University of Michigan Longitudinal Study are used to illustrate an analysis strategy that proceeds from individual characteristics to intersystem dynamics.