Impact of Parental Substance Use on Anxiety Disorders
Author Information
Author(s): Maria E Pagano, Richard Rende, Benjamin F Rodriguez, Eric L Hargraves, Amanda T Moskowitz, Martin B Keller
Primary Institution: Case Western Reserve University
Hypothesis
Does a history of parental substance use disorders affect the clinical course of anxiety disorders in adult offspring?
Conclusion
Adult children of parents with substance use disorders are more likely to experience relapses of social phobia and panic disorders.
Supporting Evidence
- Adults with a history of parental substance use disorders were more likely to be divorced.
- History of parental substance use disorder was a significant predictor of relapse of social phobia and panic disorders.
- Subjects with parental substance use were significantly more likely to have a high school level of education.
Takeaway
Kids whose parents have problems with drugs or alcohol might have a harder time with anxiety when they grow up.
Methodology
The study used data from the Harvard/Brown Anxiety Research Project, following 618 adults over 12 years to assess the impact of parental substance use on anxiety disorders.
Potential Biases
Potential underreporting of parental substance use by children of alcoholics/addicts.
Limitations
The study's clinical sample may not be generalizable to non-treatment-seeking populations, and relied on self-reports of parental substance use.
Participant Demographics
Participants ranged in age from 18 to 86 years, predominantly female (67%), with 18% reporting a history of parental substance use disorders.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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