This study had several limitations. First, because retrospective reports of childhood maltreatment were used, it is possible that retrospective cognitive interpretations of the tragic events might result in over- or under-reporting of child maltreatment. Second, the Add Health only focused on the parent or caregiver as the source of the maltreatment. In addition, only one aspect of child maltreatment, types of maltreatment, was used. Future studies examining the relationship between child maltreatment and adolescent binge drinking need to include other perpetrators and other aspects of maltreatment such as frequency, severity, and chronicity. Despite these limitations, this study adds important knowledge to alcohol and maltreatment research. Examining the negative effects of childhood maltreatment on alcohol use and dependence, the co-occurrence of different categories of maltreatment should be considered.
