Hallucinogen Use Among Juvenile Probationers: Prevalence and Characteristics

• NCJ Number: 178791
• Journal: Criminal Justice and Behavior Volume: 26 Issue: 3 Dated: September 1999 Pages: 357-372
• Author(s): Jeffrey M. Jenson; Matthew O. Howard
• Date Published: September 1999
• Length: 16 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Research (Applied/Empirical)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

The authors assessed the prevalence of hallucinogen use, identified differences between lifetime hallucinogen users and non-users, and evaluated variables predicting age of onset and lifetime frequency of hallucinogen use among 415 juvenile probationers in a western state.

Abstract

Data obtained in structured face-to-face interviews with juvenile probationers were analyzed. Individual-level variables included indicators of perceived opportunity to be part of conventional society, intention to engage in drug use, perceived risk associated with drug use, and suicide ideation. The effects of family process on hallucinogen use were also assessed, and youth self-reports of parent and sibling alcohol and drug use were measured. Social variables included peer influence to engage in deviant behavior and involvement in school and employment. Antisocial behavior indicators included gang involvement, trouble with police and teachers, selling drugs, committing delinquent acts while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, engaging in delinquent behavior to support drug use, and referral to court for drug-related offenses. Forty-four percent of juvenile probationers reported lifetime hallucinogen use and 37 percent used hallucinogens in the past year. The following factors significantly discriminated hallucinogen users from non-users: number of drug-using peers, involvement in drug distribution, perceived risk associated with drug use, suicide ideation, participation and attendance in school, and parent involvement in youth activities. The following factors were significantly related to lifetime frequency of hallucinogen use: lifetime marijuana and inhalant use, number of drug-using peers, criminal behavior to support drug use, intention to use drugs, and participation in school. The number of drug-using siblings significantly predicted age at onset of hallucinogen use. The authors conclude that drug treatment services for hallucinogen users are needed in the juvenile justice system. 19 references, 1 note, and 4 tables