Within a structural equation framework, a low LR to alcohol was related to the family history (FH) of AUDs, and was associated with heavier drinking and alcohol problems both directly and as partially mediated by heavier peer drinking, alcohol expectancies, and the use of alcohol to cope with stress (Schuckit et al., 2008a; 2008c; Schuckit et al., in press). Therefore, in light of the 40% or more contribution of environment to LR, the relationship between a low LR and later alcohol problems is best considered in the context of additional characteristics that relate to future AUDs. These include the FH of AUDs with studies demonstrating that the link between LR and alcohol outcomes tends to be stronger in family history positives (Schuckit & Smith, 1996), perhaps reflecting other risk factors in addition to LR (Schuckit, 2009), LR partially mediates the relationship between FH and adverse alcohol outcomes (Cotton, 1979; Jacob et al., 2003; Jennison & Johnson, 1998; Ohannassian et al., 2004; Schuckit et al., 2005; Schuckit & Smith, 2000). The familial pattern of AUDs is also associated with an earlier
