Aim: To validate the CRAFFT screening test, against the DSM IV Axis 1-based diagnostic inventory in a population of adolescents and young adult males in Singapore.
Methods: The 23,248 participants belonged to a cohort of males who had undergone a medical examination prior to enlistment for military service. This study took place between August 2004 and August 2005. Subjects underwent a two-stage assessment and were administered the CRAFFT questionnaire and the Composite International Diagnostic Interview (CIDI).
Results: The mean age of the subjects was 19 years (range, 16 to 26 years). The CRAFFT showed moderately high levels of internal consistency (Cronbach's α=0.73). The optimum cutoff point for drug-related disorder either abuse or dependence and alcohol-related disorder either abuse or dependence criterions were found at CRAFFT score of 1 or higher.
Conclusion: The CRAFFT test is a valid means of screening adolescents for substance-related disorders in a multiethnic population of adolescent and young adult males.
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