[Relationship between first-time drug use and first offense among adolescents in conflict with the law].
The aim of this study was to analyze a possible relationship between first experience with drugs and delinquency among adolescents in conflict with the law. In 2006, a cross-sectional study was conducted in facilities of the State Foundation for the Well-being of Minors (FEBEM), with a total occupancy of 312. The sample consisted of 150 male adolescents (48% of the total population) aged 12 to 21, confined for the first time in FEBEM detention centers for socio-educational rehabilitation in Sertãozinho and Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo State, Brazil. An individual questionnaire with closed questions was used. Results showed high rates of first-time alcohol, cigarette, and marijuana use, occurring concomitantly around 12 years. The most common offenses were robbery (44.7%), followed by drug traffic (29.4%), and theft (9.3%), occurring around 13. The data show that drug use occurs prior to offenses.
Martins
Mayra Costa
MC
Escola de Enfermagem de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Avenida Bandeirantes 3900, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil. maymartins@uol.com.br
Pillon
Sandra Cristina
SC
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000428:Alcohol Drinking / Q000453:epidemiology*; D001938:Brazil / Q000453:epidemiology; D002648:Child; D016578:Crack Cocaine; D003415:Crime / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D004812:Epidemiologic Methods; D006801:Humans; D007604:Juvenile Delinquency / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D008297:Male; D008385:Marijuana Smoking / Q000453:epidemiology*; D012907:Smoking / Q000453:epidemiology; D019966:Substance-Related Disorders / Q000453:epidemiology*; D013997:Time Factors
D016578:Crack Cocaine