Protection and vulnerability processes relevant for early onset of
substance use: A test among African American Children
Thomas Ashby Wills, Frederick X. Gibbons, Meg Gerrard,
Gene H. Brody
(2000) Health Psychology, 19(3), 253-263.
This research tested predictions from a self-regulation model of
factors relevant for early onset of tobacco and alcohol use with a community
sample of 889 African American children (mean age = 10.5 years). Criterion variables were peer substance use,
willingness to use substances, and resistance efficacy (intention to refuse
substance offers). Structural modeling
indicated effects of temperament dimensions were mediated through self-control
and risk-taking constructs, which were related to
school involvement, life events, and perceived vulnerability to harmful effects
of substance. Peer use was predicted by
life events, poor self-control, and parent-child conflict; willingness was
predicted by life events, risk taking, and (inversely) parental support; and
resistance efficacy was predicted by perceived vulnerability and (inversely)
poor self-control. Findings are
discussed with reference to theoretical models of early protections and
vulnerability processes.