Abstract: In our study we examined the relationship of family structure to alcohol and drug use among people diagnosed with ADHD. We used data from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health (Add Health). The study followed a nationally representative sample of adolescents in grades 7-12 in the United States during the 1994-1995 school year. We analyzed the data using logit analysis. Our study indicates that alcohol dependence among individuals with ADHD is more likely to occur among Blacks compared to other ethnic groups, among males compared to females, and among people with incomes less than $50,000 a year, but less likely to occur among individuals with ADHD who report that they are close to the grandmother who raised them. Binge drinking was more common among males than females, among those who are not married, and less likely among Asians and Blacks compared to other ethnic groups as well as among people with many close friends. Dependence on cannabis was less likely among those diagnosed with ADHD compared to those without the diagnosis. Blacks, male, and those with incomes below $30,000 a year, are more likely to be dependent on cannabis than whites, females, and those with higher incomes. People who report being close their fathers are less likely to use cannabis than those who report that they are not close to their fathers. Blacks, married individuals, and people who are raised by their grandfathers are less likely to be dependent on other substances than other ethnic groups, single individuals, and those who live with people other than their grandfather.
