Which of the following best captures the range of factors contributing to risk for substance use disorders?

Which of the following best captures the range of factors contributing to risk for substance use disorders?

• A. Genetic predisposition
• B. Gene-environment interactions only
• C. Genetic predisposition; gene-environment interactions (peer influence, trauma, stress); early exposure
• D. Protective factors only

Answer: (C)

Substance use disorder risk comes from a combination of biology and environment. A genetic predisposition sets a baseline vulnerability, but whether that vulnerability leads to a disorder depends on how genes interact with the environment—things like peer influence, trauma, and stress can amplify or dampen risk. Early exposure to substances, especially during developmental years, further increases the likelihood of later misuse by shaping brain development and use patterns. Putting together genetic predisposition, gene-environment interactions (including peer influence, trauma, and stress), and early exposure best captures the full range of factors that contribute to risk. Focusing on only one element or omitting early exposure misses important contributors to risk.

Substance use disorder risk comes from a combination of biology and environment. A genetic predisposition sets a baseline vulnerability, but whether that vulnerability leads to a disorder depends on how genes interact with the environment—things like peer influence, trauma, and stress can amplify or dampen risk. Early exposure to substances, especially during developmental years, further increases the likelihood of later misuse by shaping brain development and use patterns. Putting together genetic predisposition, gene-environment interactions (including peer influence, trauma, and stress), and early exposure best captures the full range of factors that contribute to risk. Focusing on only one element or omitting early exposure misses important contributors to risk.