. Other
characteristics that have been identified and can be measured,
but cannot be seen, are known as endophenotypes.
Endophenotypes are not an element of the disorder but are
associated with it, contribute to individual vulnerability and
are seen in the families of affected individuals (Laucht et al.,
2007). A range of endophenotypes has been identified as
markers for AUDs in young people, including behavioural
sensitivity to alcohol and event-related potentials (e.g. P300).
Schuckit and colleagues have shown that a low level of response
(LR) to alcohol is associated with heavier drinking and
alcohol problems (Schuckit et al., 2005, 2008).