Is ADHD Associated With Risk-Taking Behaviors?
There are studies indicating that there is an association between ADHD and the abuse of alcohol and drugs, as well as criminal activity. When it comes to tobacco abuse, a study from the University of California, Berkley, reported “a significant difference in rates of daily smoking and tobacco dependence for those with ADHD who had used stimulant medication in childhood in contrast to controls.” These researchers felt there was a possible link between ADHD treatment histories and levels of tobacco dependence in adulthood. However, most experts believe these anti-social behaviors are much more likely in those who have ADHD and another disorder, such as conduct disorders and mental health disorders. They believe those with ADHD alone do not appear to be at increased risk for these problems. For example, they point to a study that showed that medication for children with ADHD reduced the probability of substance use disorder (SUD) by 85 percent when compared with the risk among unmedicated
Related Questions
- How are alcohol abuse and other reckless behaviors such as driving fast or drinking and driving associated with mental health especially following deployments?
- What are the most costly, common comorbid disorders and health risk behaviors associated with ADHD (see list)?
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