Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 15, 2026

Moderate Prenatal Alcohol Exposure and Quantification of Social Behavior in Adult Rats
Published on: December 14, 2014
The stress and negative affect model of adolescent alcohol use and the moderating effects of behavioral undercontrol
1Psychology Department, Arizona State University, Tempe 85287-1104.
Abstract:
Empirical evidence for the stress and negative affect model of adolescent alcohol use has been inconsistent. We hypothesized that this inconsistent support was partially due to a third variable that moderates the model's effects. The current study assessed behavioral undercontrol as a moderator of the stress and negative affect model of adolescent alcohol use. Using a community-based sample of adolescent children of alcoholics (COAs) and a demographically matched comparison group (non-COAs), life stress, negative affect, behavioral undercontrol and alcohol use were assessed. Results showed that the stress and negative affect model predicted alcohol use. Consistent with theoretical predictions and previous research, negative affect partially mediated the relation between stress and alcohol use. However, behavioral undercontrol did not moderate the effects of stress and negative affect for COAs and non-COAs. Theoretical and methodological implications of the findings are discussed.
Related Concept Videos
Self-Presentation: Self-Monitoring and Self-Handicapping
CNS Depressants: Alcohol and Nicotine
Stress and Mental Health
Individuals with depression often experience challenges in both their personal and professional...
Stress Prevention and Stress Management Techniques II
Type A Personality: Driven and Easily Stressed
Individuals with Type A personalities are often highly competitive and ambitious and operate with a strong sense of urgency. Commonly labeled as "workaholics," they...
Stress Prevention and Stress Management Techniques IV
Self-Regulation

