Is there specific alpha clustering in light nuclei?

The role of the $\alpha$-core bound state wave function in direct reaction theories of $\alpha$ transfer and knockout reactions is discussed. It is pointed out that for $A\le 16$, wave functions with excessive rms radii are needed in order to reproduce predicted $1p$ shell absolute spectroscopic factors. It is argued that this may indicate considerable specific $\alpha$ clustering in excess of $1p$ shell estimates.