The Impact of White Matter Microstructure and Alexithymia on Substance Use Escalation in Trauma-Exposed Individuals

Alexithymia, a psychological disorder underlied by emotional impairment, is associated with substance use disorder (SUD). Childhood trauma has also been associated with the development of alexithymia and SUD. This study explores the moderating effect of childhood trauma on the indirect effect of white matter microstructure on substance use escalation through alexithymia.