Executive cognitive functioning and aggressive behavior in preadolescent boys at high risk for substance abuse/dependence

Objective: This study had three purposes: (1) to assess the underlying factor structure Of a battery of neuropsychological tests putatively measuring executive cognitive functioning (ECF) in a sample of boys at high and low risk for substance abuse/dependence: (2) to assess the relationship between EcF and aggressive behavior; and (3) to determine the interactive effects Of ECF and a family history (FH) of substance dependence on aggressive behavior. Method: Multiple measures of ECF and aggressive behavior were used to test these relationships in a sample of 291 10-12 year old boys with and without a FH of substance dependence. Results: Analyses indicated that the measures of ECF loaded on one factor. ECF was related to aggressive behavior even when accounting for IQ and SES. The interaction between ECF and a EH Of substance dependence was also associated with aggressive behavior. Conclusions: The central finding of this investigation indicates thaI ECF and its interaction with a EH of substance dependence are associated with aggressive behavior. These results suggest that violence prevention and treatment efforts in high risk groups should incorporate cognitive habilitation focusing on training in ECFs. (J. Stud. Alcohol 57: 352-359.1996)
Executive cognitive functioning (ECF) defects and aggressive behavior are correlated in children aged ten to 12 years with psychoactive substance dependence disorder. The relationship is seen only under strong provocation and is absent in the presence of mild provocation. ECF and aggression are related even after family history, IQ and socioeconomic status are taken into account. ECF is also related to oppositional defiant disorder. ECF measures show a slight difference in results and are good unidimensional predictors for aggressive behavior in preadolescent boys.
Psychiatric disorders characterized by disinhibited and antisocial behavior have been linked to deficits in executive cognitive functioning (ECF) (Cole et al., 1993; Moffitt, 1993; Tarter et al., 1985). These functions [...]