Further research is required to investigate the mechanisms of effect linking family functioning, pubertal timing and adolescence substance use. For example, overlapping genetic influences have been identified between adolescent appraisals of negativity in the parent-child relationship and substance use (e.g. Shelton et al., 2008) as well as behaviour problems (e.g. Burt, Krueger, McGue & Iacono, 2003). In addition, problems in the parent-child relationship can lead to increased affiliation with peers which brings with it an increased likelihood of exposure to substances (Kandel & Andrews, 1987). Generally however, it would be optimal to assess these constructs at an earlier age to enable the unfolding links between experimentation with substances and quality of family relationships to be charted over a longer period of time that includes early pubertal development. Capturing the interplay between social contexts to explain initiation and progression of adolescent substance use is an important avenue for research (e.g. Ennett et al., 2008) while the results of the present study also underscore the potential role played by the psychosocial component of maturation as a moderator of these relationships.
