Book excerpt: Methods of Assessing the Reinforcing Properties of Abused Drugs presents a synopsis of the preclinical procedures used to assess drug reinforcement. Researchers using one technique are provided with an overview of the other available methods, and clinicians who wish to evaluate drug abuse research reports can gain the necessary background from this volume. Although emphasis is placed on the methodological aspects of assessing drug reinforcement, some of the scientific conclusions derived from using these techniques are also presented. This edited collection offers a lasting framework for interpreting the results of current experimental findings.