NCJ Number
232640
Journal
Journal of Drug Issues Volume: 40 Issue: 3 Dated: Spring 2010 Pages: 577-610
Date Published
2010
Length
34 pages
Annotation
This study examined the conditional effect of popularity among peers on the risk of substance abuse.
Abstract
Popularity or recognition as a friend among peers is a core element in some approaches to substance abuse prevention and treatment. Its effect on a child's risk of substance abuse has not been conclusive in view of the findings involving both positive and negative effects. This study analyzing survey data from 2,051 pupils in Hong Kong, China, ascertain the effects of popularity in the presence of other predictors. Results show that the effect of popularity on substance abuse risk was not significant. Nonetheless, the interaction between popularity and substance abuse generated a significant positive effect on the risk that a child who has experienced substance abuse has a high tendency to have a relapse. This effect embodies the logic of reinforcement in social learning theory. The findings imply that preventive approaches relying on the promotion of popularity among peers need to be cautious and selective to avoid the reinforcement effect. Tables, appendix, and references (Published Abstract)