The complex genetic and psychosocial influences on polysubstance misuse

Polysubstance misuse is a costly and complex behavioral phenotype that is concurrent with internalizing and externalizing disorders. Research on genetic and psychosocial influences suggests that a life course framework composed of a transactional etiology sheds light on the complex nature of polysubstance misuse. Further, given the extensive comorbidity with mental illness and behavioral dysregulation, viewing polysubstance misuse as asymmetrical in the population is helpful for guiding broad decision-making around prevention and policy.