Behaviors associated with alcohol, tobacco and other drug (ATOD) use may be useful in determining a risk behavior syndrome. Previously, investigators have demonstrated separately links between poor school achievement, psychological distress, sexual activity and ATOD use, but fewer studies have examined their interrelationships. The present study advances this research by employing structural equation modeling techniques to combine key risk behaviors in the same analysis. By doing so, we are able to compare relative strengths of risk behavior predictors and assess their direct and indirect effects.
Analyses utilize National Youth Risk Behavior Survey data and include the following risk behaviors: recent (past three months) sexual intercourse, suicidal ideation, academic achievement and several measures of substance use. Demographic indicators include respondent's race, gender, grade level, and parental socio-economic status (SES). Structural equation modeling is used to ascertain how each risk behavior influences and is influenced by others.
Results indicate recent sexual intercourse is the strongest predictor for all types of substance use. Suicidal ideation has a significant positive and academic achievement a significant negative relationship with ATOD use. SES does not emerge as a predictor for most types of substance use. It does, however, show a strong relationship with sexual intercourse and, through this risk behavior, appears to have an indirect effect on substance use. By clarifying paths of influence and associations among risk behaviors, this study is expected to contribute towards comprehensive and integrative modeling of substance use. Discussion will address policy implications of understanding adolescent risk behaviors as a constellation.
Keywords: Adolescents, Risk Factors
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.