In sum, there are a number of theoretical models with varying degrees of empirical support that attempt to address the question of how or why personality relates to problematic drinking and AUDs. An illustration of these multiple pathways is provided in Figure 1. As noted elsewhere (e.g., Sher & Littlefield, 2008), these models are neither exhaustive nor mutually exclusive. For example, an individual with relatively high levels of impulsivity/behavioral disinhibition could hypothetically: 1) display a range of externalizing behaviors during childhood that may overlap with personality through common genetic factors (genetic diathesis); 2) affiliate with deviant peer groups that have access to alcohol during adolescence (deviance proneness); 3) subjectively enjoy drinking because the effects of alcohol are especially rewarding by reducing stress (pharmacological vulnerability); 4) later self-select into a Greek organization during college that tolerates (or promotes) heavy drinking (environmental selection); 5) become increasingly involved in a heavy drinking lifestyle that includes using alcohol to increase positive moods and/or decreases negative moods (affect regulation); 6) experience developmental changes after college, including transitions to adult roles of marriage and parenthood, undergoing
