Usefulness and validity of the modified Addiction Severity Index: A focus on alcohol, drugs, tobacco, and gambling.

BACKGROUND Individuals who seek treatment for an addictive disorder often exhibit comorbid substance use disorders and/or gambling disorder. The lack of a unique severity assessment instrument might be an obstacle for individuals to access integrated and comprehensive treatment. This paper aimed to examine the usefulness and validity of a modified version of the Addiction Severity Index (mASI) to assess all substance use disorders (including tobacco) and gambling. METHODS Participants (N = 833) were interviewed with the mASI and completed a validity battery questionnaire. The validity and the reliability of the mASI were examined. RESULTS The mASI was reliable, and its 9 assessed domains showed a relative independence, supporting its multidimensionality. CONCLUSIONS The standardized properties of the mASI permit a comprehensive and systematic assessment of all addictive disorders independent of individuals' perceived problems and treatment settings, hence facilitating personalized treatment planning.