NCJ Number
128737
Journal
Journal of Applied Developmental Psychology Volume: 8 Issue: 3 Dated: (July-September 1987) Pages: 221-246
Date Published
1987
Length
26 pages
Annotation
Using longitudinal data, this study explored changes in drug use patterns from adolescence to young adulthood in terms of role socialization theory.
Abstract
A total of 479 high school students reported their frequency of drug use. Four years later, they again responded to the same set of drug use questions and indicated their current life pursuits and living arrangements. Sex differences in stability of drug use, frequency of use, and use/nonuse distinctions over time were assessed. The impact of role socialization, reflected in life pursuits and living arrangements, on current drug use and changes in drug use after high school was evaluated, while controlling for income level. The overall effect of life pursuits and living arrangements in explaining the variance in young adult drug use was also evaluated, while controlling for high school level of drug use. About 60 percent of the variance in young adult drug use was accounted for by high school drug use, indicating a moderate level of stability over time. Marijuana and hashish use decreased significantly during the 4-year period, whereas dramatic increases were noted for cigarette, alcohol, and cocaine use. Both life pursuits and living arrangements significantly affected drug use from high school to young adulthood for all substances except nonprescription drugs. Both role responsibility (life pursuit) and social environment (living arrangement) contributed to understanding the change in drug use from adolescence to young adulthood. Study results are discussed in relation to role socialization and the unique challenges and tasks of the transition from adolescence to young adulthood. Policy and prevention implications are also considered. 48 references, 10 tables, and 3 figures