A trait-like propensity to experience internalizing symptoms is associated with problem alcohol involvement across adulthood, but not adolescence.

ABSTRACT: There are stable between-person differences in an internalizing "trait," or the propensity to experience symptoms of internalizing disorders, such as social anxiety, generalized anxiety disorder, and depression. Trait internalizing may serve as a marker of heightened risk for problem alcohol outcomes (such as heavier drinking, binge drinking, or alcohol dependence). However, prior research on the association between internalizing symptoms and alcohol outcomes has been largely mixed in adolescence, with more consistent support for an association during adulthood. It may be that trait internalizing is only associated with problem alcohol outcomes in adulthood, after individuals have gained experience with alcohol. Some evidence suggested that these effects may be stronger for women than men.

SUBMITTER: King KM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7655636 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature