Licensed Clinical Psychologist

A "Habitual Drunkard" has been defined as someone who regularly consumes excessive amounts of alcohol and has lost the ability or will to control their drinking due to frequent indulgence. Similarly, a habitual drunkard can be described as “one who has the habit of indulging in intoxicating liquors so firmly fixed that he becomes intoxicated as often as the temptation is presented by his being in the vicinity where liquors are sold” (1). 

According to the American Psychiatric Association: Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), a diagnosis of Alcohol Use Disorder includes criteria such as “a problematic pattern of alcohol use leading to clinically significant impairment or distress”; consumption of alcohol “in larger amounts or over a longer period than was intended”; and/or a “persistent desire” for alcohol. This also includes experiencing cravings and recurrent or continued use of alcohol, resulting in impairment of social, occupational, or interpersonal functioning. Developing an alcohol tolerance and experiencing withdrawal also falls within the Alcohol Use Disorder criteria (2). 

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While the DSM-5 does not specifically use the term habitual drunkard among the diagnostic criteria for Alcohol Use Disorder, an individual who can be described as a habitual drunkard according to the above definitions would meet the criteria for a DSM-5 diagnosis of Alcohol Use Disorder. However, an individual must meet the Alcohol Use Disorder criteria consistent with alcohol addiction, such as craving, tolerance, and withdrawal, to be considered a habitual drunkard.  

The concepts of Habitual Drunkard and Alcohol Use Disorder can be significant factors in a variety of legal cases, including, but not limited to, Dram Shop, Driving Under the Influence (DUI), wrongful death, and personnel matters. These cases routinely involve forensic consultants with expertise in areas such as Dram Shop and Toxicology; however, Clinical Psychologists can also play a significant role in these cases.  

For example, in cases where a visibly intoxicated individual leaves a bar, operates a motor vehicle, and causes a motor vehicle accident resulting in the death or injury of a second individual, multiple experts may be needed. A Dram Shop Expert may address issues related to staff training and over-service. A Toxicology Expert can analyze factors such as alcohol intoxication and impairment, blood and urine alcohol levels, and alcohol abuse and misuse. Additionally, a clinical psychologist can play a critical role by formally determining whether the driver who caused the accident met the diagnostic criteria of Alcohol Use Disorder, including criteria consistent with alcohol addiction, thereby also meeting the standard of habitual drunkard. This diagnostic information could then be used to support and strengthen the opinions of the Dram Shop and Toxicology Experts.