What is the purpose of the Drug Abuse Screening Test (DAST)?

The Drug Abuse Screening Test (DAST) serves the specific purpose of detecting abuse or dependence on drugs other than alcohol. It is a standardized tool that helps clinicians assess the extent of an individual's drug use and related problems. The DAST focuses on evaluating patterns of drug use and the impact that those substances may have on an individual's life, allowing for a clearer understanding of their substance use issues.

While assessing readiness for group therapy, evaluating family history of substance use, or determining job readiness may be relevant in a broader treatment context, they are not the primary objectives of the DAST. The test is particularly valuable in identifying non-alcohol drug issues so that appropriate treatment strategies can be developed for individuals dealing with substance use disorders. This targeted focus is what makes the DAST a crucial tool in the assessment process for chemical dependency counselors.