Alcohol use is legal for persons age 21 and older, and the majority of people who drink do so without incident. However, there is a continuum of potential problems associated with alcohol consumption. This brief addresses the definition of an "alcohol problem" and problems associated with "risky drinking." It also addresses the diagnoses of alcohol abuse and alcohol dependence. Highlighted are factors that may contribute to alcohol dependence, consequences of alcohol use, and the detection and treatment of alcohol use problems. (Contains 13 references.) (GCP)