Changes in neuropsychological functioning over 10 years following adolescent substance abuse treatment.

• DOI: 10.1037/a0022350
• Publication Date: 2011-03-28T19:45:04Z
• Authors: Karen L. Hanson; Kevin Cummins; Susan F. Tapert; Sandra A. Brown
• Keywords: Neuropsychological Assessment; Longitudinal Study; Neuropsychological test

Previously, Anderson, Ramo, Cummins, and Brown (2010) described six distinct patterns of alcohol other drug (AOD) use during the decade following adolescents' treatment for substance disorders (A/SUD). This time period represents a phase significant neurodevelopment, influence on brain is concern. In present study, we examined neuropsychological function over these 10 years in relation to AOD trajectories identified youth as they transition into their twenties. Participants were part longitudinal research project adolescents with without A/SUD who received examinations at baseline up 7 times thereafter spanning (N = 213; 46% female baseline). Neuropsychological significantly related involvement measures verbal learning memory (ps .011 <.0001), visuospatial (p .0002), attention/working .020), heavier generally followed by poorer cognition. Heavy alone was independently associated time. Furthermore, withdrawal symptoms each follow-up point scores < .05), whereas abuse/dependence diagnostic criteria not performance levels. These findings suggest that adolescence young adulthood may primarily relies later maturing structures, although further needed. Higher levels signify greater impairment, reflecting potential neurotoxic effects use.