Despite these limitations, this study highlights the utility of prospective designs focused on delineating mediational processes by which genetic risk unfolds. Improving prevention programming requires a better understanding of developmental precursors of risk and age-relevant intermediate phenotypes that lead to addiction. Findings offer preliminary evidence that for some youth, genetic risk may be expressed as early difficulties modulating distress. These youth may benefit from interventions that increase stress management and emotion regulation. For other youth, genetic risk may be expressed as early difficulties controlling impulses. These youth may benefit from interventions that increase self-control.
