What is the Substance Abuse Screening Test (SAST)?

The Substance Abuse Screening Test (SAST) is a 20-item self-administered questionnaire designed to identify individuals who may have a substance use disorder.

Who developed the SAST and when?

Developed by Harvey A. Skinner, PhD in 1982.

What type of assessment is the SAST?

It is a self-report screening questionnaire.

What does the SAST assess?

• Loss of control over substance use
• Social and occupational impairment
• Risky use patterns
• Preoccupation with substance use
• Physical dependence indicators

How many items and what format?

20 yes/no questions covering various aspects of substance use problems.

How is the SAST scored?

Each "yes" answer receives 1 point. Scores of 5+ suggest substance use disorder.

Are there versions of the SAST?

Standard 20-item version; adapted versions exist for specific substances.

Who can use the SAST?

Adults in clinical, workplace, and research settings.

What are the strengths of the SAST?

Comprehensive coverage, good reliability, widely used in substance abuse treatment.

What are the limitations of the SAST?

Self-report bias possible; does not specify which substances.

How is the SAST used?

Clinical screening, treatment planning, outcome monitoring.