B – 124 Neurocriminogenic Transmission Theory: Linking Parental Substance Exposure, Cognitive Impairment, and Criminal Risk Across Generations

Abstract Objective This review introduces Neurocriminogenic Transmission Theory (NTT), a novel framework proposing that cognitive impairments from prenatal substance exposure, such as executive dysfunction, impulsivity, and emotional insensitivity, contribute to the intergenerational transmission of antisocial and criminal behavior. The theory centers on individuals with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) and associated neurodevelopmental risks. Method Empirical studies were reviewed to examine links between neurocognitive deficits and antisocial outcomes, particularly in individuals with FASD (Connor et al., 2020; Ernst et al., 2023; Walters, 2022). For the current analysis, emergency shelter intake data were used to compare sibling counts among children placed due to parental substance use (n = 52) versus non-substance-related causes (n = 69). Selection was based on placement cause. An independent samples t-test assessed whether cognitive disinhibition contributes to higher fertility in substance-exposed parents. Results FASD is associated with sluggish cognitive tempo, executive dysfunction, and neurodevelopmental abnormalities that underlie behavioral dysregulation and criminal risk. The t-test revealed that children placed due to parental substance use had significantly more siblings (M = 3.11, SD = 2.03) than peers placed for other reasons (M = 2.31, SD = 1.71), t(95) = 2.12, p = .018, d = .431. Preliminary data also suggest that elevated sibling counts are most characteristic of Hispanic populations, possibly non-Hispanic Blacks, but not observed among Hispanic Whites; statistical analyses pending. Conclusion NTT underscores the need for early neuropsychological screening, trauma-informed care, and targeted interventions for substance-using parents to interrupt cycles of neurobehavioral risk and criminal vulnerability.