The role of self-control in early escalation of substance use: a time-varying analysis.
This research tested predictions about the role of temperament and self-control in early substance use (tobacco, alcohol, and marijuana). A sample of 1,526 participants was assessed in 6th grade (mean age = 11.5 years) and followed with yearly assessments through 9th grade. Latent growth models showed temperament dimensions were related to early substance use, and their effects were mediated through generalized self-control ability. Time-varying effects indicated rate of growth in substance use was higher among participants who showed increases in poor self-control and lower among participants who showed increases in good self-control. Results in self-report data were corroborated by independent teacher ratings. Findings are discussed with reference to epigenetic models of protection and vulnerability.
Department of Epidemiology and Social Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine of Yeshiva University, Bronx, New York 10461, USA. wills@aecom.yu.edu
Thomas Ashby
TA
Wills
Mike
M
Stoolmiller
D002648:Child; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D015994:Incidence; D008297:Male; D010555:Personality Inventory; D015995:Prevalence; D020377:Self Efficacy; D019966:Substance-Related Disorders / Q000453:epidemiology*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D013694:Temperament; D013997:Time Factors