In addition, findings from these cross-sectional data are associational, and causality cannot be determined. Though we provide a rationale supporting the presence of a causal pathway that is grounded in the existing literature (e.g. Dick et al. 2013; Edenberg et al. 2004; Villafuerte et al. 2012, 2013), the implications for etiological theories of alcohol dependence are speculative. This study should be replicated in the future using longitudinal samples that measure both genetics and social experiences prior to the development of alcohol dependence.
