NCJ Number
195524
Journal
Journal of Child & Adolescent Substance Abuse Volume: 11 Issue: 1 Dated: 2001 Pages: 45-54
Date Published
2001
Length
10 pages
Annotation
This study tested the influence of peer, family, and school relationships in substance use among participants in a youth jobs program.
Abstract
This study tested the Primary Socialization Hypothesis of deviant behavior in examining drug use in a sample of adolescents participating in a federally sponsored jobs program for disadvantaged youth. The theory holds that peer, family, and schools are the principal agents in instilling pro-social norms in adolescents. A breakdown in family or school bonds can lead to association with deviant peers and subsequent drug use. Despite its limited sample size, the study confirms the theory and the role of negative peer relations. Though each of two regression models explained a fair amount of the variance in alcohol use, it was obvious that other factors were important in explaining adolescent drug use. The study concluded that findings supported the theory. The paper suggests that future studies of program participants should include psychological measures and the role they play in modifying the effects of family, peers, and school. Tables, references