Maternal smoking during pregnancy and severe antisocial behavior in offspring: a review

Abstract

Objectives: Recent research suggests that in utero exposure to maternal smoking is a risk factor for conduct disorder and delinquency. We review evidence of causality, a controversial but important public health question.

Methods: We analyzed studies of maternal prenatal smoking and offspring antisocial behavior within a causal framework.

Results: The association is (1) independent of confounders, (2) present across diverse contexts, and (3) consistent with basic science. Methodological limitations of existing studies preclude causal conclusions.

Conclusions: Existing evidence provides consistent support for, but not proof of, an etiologic role for prenatal smoking in the onset of antisocial behavior. The possibility of identifying a preventable prenatal risk factor for a serious mental disorder makes further research on this topic important for public health.