The InterSECT framework: A proposed model for explaining population-level trends in substance use and emotional concerns

Am J Epidemiol. 2024 Feb 22:kwae013. doi: 10.1093/aje/kwae013. Online ahead of print.ABSTRACTAcross high-income countries, adolescent emotional concerns have been increasing in prevalence over the past two decades and it is unclear why this is occurring, including if and how substance use relates to these changing trends. On the other hand, substance use has been generally declining, and little is known about the role of emotional concerns in these trends. Several studies have explored the changes in co-occurring substance use and emotional concerns among adolescents over time, with mixed results and inconsistent messaging about the implications of the findings. In response, we developed a theoretical framework for exploring the intersection between trends in substance use and emotional health (InterSECT Framework). This framework includes a discussion and related examples for three core hypotheses: 1) strengthening of co-occurrence or the "hardening" hypothesis, 2) co-occurrence staying the same or the "consistency" hypothesis, and 3) weakening of co-occurrence or the "decoupling" hypothesis. This framework seeks to guide the conceptualization, evaluation, and understanding of changes in the co-occurrence of substance use and emotional concerns over time, including outlining a research agenda informed by pre-existing research and youth perspectives.PMID:38400654 | DOI:10.1093/aje/kwae013

Source: Am J Epidemiol - February 24, 2024 Category: Epidemiology Authors: Jillian Halladay Matthew Sunderland Cath Chapman Maree Teesson Tim Slade Source Type: research