Understanding how family dynamics influence substance use and behavior problems in adolescents

Family processes underlying adolescent substance use and conduct problems: disentangling correlation and causation

NIH-funded research University of California, San Diego · NIH-11036360

This study looks at how different family situations, like how much parents keep an eye on their kids and how often families argue, can affect teenagers' choices about using drugs and getting into trouble, with the goal of finding better ways to help families support their teens.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Diego NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (La Jolla, United States)
Project IDNIH-11036360 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the complex relationship between family processes and adolescent substance use and conduct problems. By analyzing data from a large, diverse cohort of youth, the study aims to identify specific family factors, such as parental monitoring and family conflict, that contribute to these issues. The approach focuses on disentangling correlation from causation, allowing for a better understanding of how these family dynamics impact adolescent behavior over time. This research could lead to more effective family-based interventions and prevention programs tailored to the unique needs of adolescents.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents aged 10 to 20 who are experiencing substance use or conduct problems, as well as their families.

Not a fit: Patients who are outside the age range of 10 to 20 or who do not exhibit substance use or conduct problems may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved family-based interventions that reduce substance use and conduct problems in adolescents.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in understanding family dynamics and their impact on adolescent behavior, making this approach both relevant and promising.

Where this research is happening

La Jolla, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.