Influence of risk and protective factors on substance use outcomes across developmental periods: a comparison of youth and young adults

Subst Use Misuse. 2011;46(13):1604-12. doi: 10.3109/10826084.2011.598598. Epub 2011 Sep 7.

Abstract

Data were collected from samples of youth (ages 11-18; N = 38,268) and young 10 adults (ages 18-24; N = 602) across 30 Tennessee counties using surveys and telephone interviews conducted in 2006-2008. Data were analyzed using hierarchical nonlinear modeling to determine: (1) which risk and protective factors predicted alcohol and marijuana use, and (2) whether predictors differed as a function of developmental period. Findings provide preliminary evidence that prevention efforts need to take into consideration the changing environment and related influences as youth age, especially as they move from a more protected community environment to one where they live somewhat independently. Implications and limitations are discussed.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Age Factors
  • Alcohol Drinking / epidemiology*
  • Child
  • Female
  • Health Surveys / methods
  • Health Surveys / statistics & numerical data*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Marijuana Smoking / epidemiology*
  • Nonlinear Dynamics
  • Risk Factors
  • Tennessee / epidemiology
  • Young Adult