Understanding the role that family functioning plays in the relationship between parental problem drinking and adolescent externalizing behaviors has important implications for the prevention, intervention, and treatment of adolescent externalizing behaviors. Specifically, results from this study suggest that prevention programs focusing on adolescent externalizing problems should target family cohesion and adolescent-parent communication. Further, study findings note the importance of recognizing differences in family experiences and outcomes for adolescent girls and boys. By capitalizing on such family processes, adolescents may be protected against the risks associated with externalizing behaviors.
