In summary, sexual abuse, physical abuse, emotional abuse and physical neglect independently increased the risk of alcohol dependence, underscoring the importance of early identification and prevention. Importantly, the effect of physical abuse on alcohol dependence may depend on genetic vulnerability as suggested by the effect of parental history of alcoholism, while the effects of sexual abuse and emotional neglect may depend on this vulnerability within women. Findings could guide genetic studies and intervention development. Finally, future studies should consider whether observed relationships are unique to alcohol dependence or common to a broad range of adult psychopathology.
