Cognitive and behavioral features of adolescent coping in high-risk drinking situations.
The present study examined the coping responses used by adolescents in high-risk situations. Sixty-six adolescents described situations in which it was difficult to resist drinking alcohol. Cognitive and behavioral responses in the perceived high-risk alcohol situations were examined. Abusing and nonabusing adolescents reported similar high-risk situations, but differed significantly in the cognitive and behavioral strategies used to cope with drinking pressures. Cognitive strategies associated with abstaining from alcohol use included defining oneself as a nondrinker and viewing other drinkers negatively. Behavioral responses associated with not drinking included engaging in an alternative activity and avoiding or limiting direct exposure to the high-risk situations. Theoretical and clinical implications for effective coping in alcohol situations are discussed.
Brown
S A
SA
Veterans Administration Medical Center, San Diego, CA 92161.
Stetson
B A
BA
Beatty
P A
PA
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000293:Adolescent; D000294:Adolescent Behavior; D000328:Adult; D000428:Alcohol Drinking / Q000523:psychology*; D000437:Alcoholism / Q000523:psychology; D002648:Child; D003071:Cognition; D003710:Demography; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010290:Parents; D012306:Risk; D012931:Social Environment