Developmental Patterns Associated with the Onset of Drug Use: Changes in Postulated Mediators during Adolescence

Abstract

This study longitudinally examines the changes in key mediators for adolescent substance use. Previous research and intervention strategies typically target mediators as important foci for program intervention. Findings presented here indicate that while some deterioration of key mediators occurs developmentally among all adolescents, the deterioration is more severe for students that initiate substance use. Furthermore, the rate of deterioration associated with the onset of substance use is more evident for some mediators (e.g. normative beliefs, commitment and lifestyle incompatibility) than for others (e.g. goal-setting and self-esteem). Finally, evidence indicates that the mediators that suffer the greatest deterioration significantly vary across substance. In other words, the degree of deterioration in mediators that should have a substantial influence on adolescent substance use varies across alcohol, tobacco, marijuana and inhalant use. Implications for program development and intervention strategies are discussed in light of these findings.