A new study examines the low level of response (LR) model of risk among teens. Low LR is one of the many genetically influenced characteristics that may increase the risk of heavy drinking or addiction. The findings indicate that a low LR combined with peer substance use, the desire for the positive effects of drinking or drinking to cope with stress is related to the more adverse effects of alcohol.

The study finds that the effect of a low LR on later heavy drinking occurs through several steps. The first is that the individual is likely to drink the amount needed to achieve the desired effects; the second is that if it takes more drinks to get those effects, the person is more likely to drink more per occasion; the third is that the low LR causes association with peers who have similar responses and therefore consume similar amounts; the fourth is that a person’s low LR and influence from the peers is likely to effect the expectations from a session of drinking; and the fifth involves the low LR, peer influence and expectations combining to encourage the person to use alcohol to deal with life issues. Therefore, this leads to the probability that the person will drink more, which increases the risk for problems with alcohol.

The study further confirms the three risk factors of peer influence, expectations and coping, and adds a fourth, LR. This knowledge can help doctors create better treatment plans and possibly prevention.

More information can be found at: http://www.attcnetwork.org/explore/priorityareas/science/tools/asmeDetails.asp?ID=724

The full journal may be viewed at: http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/acer.2011.35.issue-10/issuetoc

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