This study identified discrete patterns of youth smoking over the course of middle and high school and examined longitudinal correlates of those patterns. Cluster analyses were performed on smoking data from 1028 6th through 12th grade students in the Massachusetts Substance Abuse Longitudinal Study. Growth curve modeling was used to examine differences between the clusters in longitudinal patterns on associated attitudes, behaviors and social functioning. Variables included smoking attitudes, family functioning, AOD use, and social bonding. Six clusters of youth were identified. Non-smokers had virtually no consumption throughout the seven study years. Quitters had no consumption at 6th grade, however their rates climbed to 43.2% at grade 9, then dropped to 13.3% by 12th grade. Experimenters’ consumption was 0% for the initial three years, then experienced a steady increase over the next three years, and rose sharply to 63.0 % in the 12th grade. Consumption by Late Escalators had minor fluctuations over the first four years and then a sharp increase to 75% at grade 12. Early Escalators’ usage exhibited a sharp increase at grade 8 and reached 97.4% by grade 12. In contrast, smoking in the Continuous Smokers cluster started at a high level at grade 6 (13%) and quickly increased to and remained above 90%. The clusters were clearly different in terms of their longitudinal patterns on the associated variables. These distinct patterns suggest distinct prevention and early interventions for the different youth clusters.
Learning Objectives: Attendees will learn about longitudinal patterns of smoking in adolescents. They will learn to recognize distinct patterns and identify correlates of those patterns. At the conclusion of the session, the participant (learner) in this session will be able to describe the characteristics of the distinct longitudinal patterns and their implications for prevention planning
Keywords: Adolescents, Smoking
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.