Individual Differences in the Associations between Risk Factors for Alcohol Use Disorder and Alcohol Use-Related Outcomes
Abstract
Background. Family history of alcohol use disorder (FH+) and impulsivity-related traits are known risk factors for problem drinking that have been investigated in predominately White samples. This cross-sectional study examined whether these risk factors vary by sex in the overall, majority White sample and in a Black subsample. Methods. A model building regression procedure was used to investigate the combined effect of FH+ and impulsivity-related traits on alcohol quantity, frequency, and problems by sex (overall sample: N=757, 50% female, 73% White, agemean=33.74, SD=11.60; Black subsample: n=138, 47% female, agemean=33.60, SD=9.87). Results. Overall Sample. No sex differences were found in the compounding effects of FH+ and impulsivity-related traits on alcohol outcomes. Males reported more physical, social, and overall alcohol-related problems than females. FH+ was positively associated with all alcohol-related consequences. Poor self-regulation was the only trait associated with all alcohol outcomes. Black Subsample. A three-way interaction suggested a negative association between inhibition and frequency of alcohol use among FH+ males only. A two-way interaction also suggested impulse control was associated with more interpersonal alcohol-related problems among males only. Main effects were also found in the expected direction such that higher impulsivity and FH+ were associated with poorer alcohol outcomes. Conclusion. These findings suggest no sex differences in the…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a cross-sectional. Its evidence level is 4 of 5 (Low · observational). Observational designs can show an association but not prove cause. Reported size: 757 participants or records.
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