Protection and vulnerability
processes relevant for early onset of substance use: A test among African
American children
Thomas Ashby Wills, Fredrick 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 substances. 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 protection and
vulnerability processes.