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Understanding the match between homeless youths' perceived network member substance use and their network members' actual substance use: A multi-level analysis
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Method: This study used first wave data of a homeless youth social network longitudinal study. Participants (N=377) were sampled from two drop-in centers in Los Angeles and completed a questionnaire and social network interview. Youths’ socio-metric networks in the two centers were constructed. Hierarchical linear modeling was conducted to examine participant, network and relationship level factors on a match between youths’ perceived and network members’ actual substance use.
Results: Homophily of specific substance use between youth and their network members was associated with a match between the perceived and actual network member marijuana, methamphetamine, cocaine, and prescription drug use (OR=37.09, 95% CI=12.01-114.53; OR=17.98, 95%CI=8.72-37.07; OR=47.49, 95% CI=19.09-118.15; OR=7.95, 95% CI=4.93-12.83, respectively). Homophily in gender was associated with the perceived and actual methamphetamine use match (OR=1.71, 95% CI=1.08-2.71). Network members’ out-degree centrality was negatively associated with perceived and actual methamphetamine use match (OR=0.84; 95% CI=0.75-0.93). Participants occupying more central network positions were positively associated with perceived and actual network member heroin use match (OR=1.58, 95% CI=1.14-2.19; OR=1.31, 95% CI=1.05-1.64).
Conclusion: The findings suggest that it is important for substance abuse interventions focusing on homeless youth to target prevalent social norms rather than correcting individuals’ misperceptions for youth in networks where members use similar drugs.
Learning Areas:
Social and behavioral sciencesLearning Objectives:
Demonstrate multilevel analysis application in social network research
Discuss potential social network characteristics that may influence individuals' correct perception of network norms
Keyword(s): Drug Abuse, Youth
Qualified on the content I am responsible for because: I have participated in multiple projects on looking health related issues among homeless population, including substance use. My have also participated in studies that looking social network influences on homeless youth's sexual risks and substance use behaviors.
Any relevant financial relationships? No
I agree to comply with the American Public Health Association Conflict of Interest and Commercial Support Guidelines, and to disclose to the participants any off-label or experimental uses of a commercial product or service discussed in my presentation.