Place-based social network quality and correlates of substance use among urban adolescents.
A sample of 301 Philadelphia adolescents were assessed for substance use and place-based social network quality, a weighted variable based upon risky and protective behaviors of alters. The network measure was anchored in routine locations identified as safe, risky, important, or favorite. Results show young females' (13-16) substance use was strongly associated with their place-based social networks compared to older females (17-20) and compared to young and older males. Younger females' protective networks reduced their likelihood of substance use compared to females with risky networks (OR=.94, CI=.89-.99, p<.05), while young males experienced no protective network effects. Older females' protective networks reduced the likelihood of substance use compared to those with risky networks (OR=.96, CI=.93-.99, p<.005). Older males' protective networks also reduced their likelihood of substance use (OR=.86, CI=.74-.99, p<.05). Results highlight the varying affects of place, gender, and age on adolescent social network protection and associated risk for substance use.
Mason
Michael J
MJ
Villanova University, Department of Education & Human Services, St. Augustine Center, Villanova, PA 19010, USA. michael.mason@villanova.edu
Valente
Thomas W
TW
Coatsworth
J Douglas
JD
Mennis
Jeremy
J
Lawrence
Frank
F
Zelenak
Patricia
P
D000293:Adolescent; D000367:Age Factors; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D016013:Likelihood Functions; D008297:Male; D010379:Peer Group; D015143:Philadelphia; D012307:Risk Factors; D012309:Risk-Taking; D012737:Sex Factors; D012931:Social Environment; D012932:Social Facilitation; D012933:Social Identification; D012944:Social Support; D019966:Substance-Related Disorders / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000523:psychology*; D014505:Urban Population; D055815:Young Adult