Although research has demonstrated an association between certain types of explanations for peer-group illicit consumption and self-reported intentions to consume drugs and alcohol in response to peer influence, the mechanisms underlying these relationships have not been well studied. The results of two studies support predictions that group attractiveness mediates the effects of attributions regarding peer-group illicit consumption on intentions to conform. Normative attributions for group substance abuse were associated with reduced group attractiveness. The authors discuss the implications of these findings for further research and for the design and implementation of effective intervention programs.
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