Educational Factors Influencing Adolescent Decision Making Regarding Use of Alcohol and Drugs

• NCJ Number: 120072
• Journal: Journal of Alcohol and Drug Education Volume: 35 Issue: 1 Dated: (Fall 1989) Pages: 1-15
• Author(s): J D Grimes; J D Swisher
• Date Published: 1989
• Length: 15 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Survey
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This study examined reasons for not using tobacco, alcohol, and various other substances by students in relation to the amount of self-reported use of these substances.

Abstract

A survey was given to 5,887 high school students in grades 6 through 12 in 26 school districts throughout Pennsylvania. Significant findings were reported for the importance of information and self-reported use of tobacco and beer; the importance of self-concept and self-reported use of tobacco, beer, marijuana, depressants, stimulants, and cocaine; the importance of recreational and alternative activities and self-reported use of tobacco, beer, and marijuana; the importance of school policy and self-reported use of beer, marijuana, and stimulants; and the importance of adults as models and self-reported use of tobacco, marijuana, and stimulants. In general non-users rated the decision-making variables as being more important in the decision-making process than users. 4 tables, 39 references. (Author abstract)