What does a score of 0 to 3 on the MAST indicate?

A score of 0 to 3 on the Michigan Alcoholism Screening Test (MAST) indicates the absence of alcohol dependence. The MAST is a widely recognized tool designed to screen individuals for alcohol problems. In this context, a low score suggests that the individual does not exhibit significant alcohol-related issues or the criteria for alcohol dependence as defined in the screening tool.

The scoring process reflects the presence or absence of specific symptoms associated with alcohol misuse. A minimal score signifies that the respondent likely does not experience the negative consequences of alcohol use that would warrant a diagnosis of dependence. Therefore, interpreting a score within this range as an indication of no alcohol dependence aligns with the instrument's purpose in identifying potential issues related to alcohol abuse and dependence.

Higher scores would indicate increasing levels of concern and potentially point toward alcohol-related problems, but a score between 0 and 3 is reassuring in terms of the individual's relationship with alcohol.