Cocaine use among Miami's public school students, 1992: religion versus peers and availability

This analysis examines the use of cocaine by 507 adolescents in Dade County, Florida public schools during 1992. Statistically significant factors which tend to increase the probability of cocaine use by adolescents include: the fact that their peers are using cocaine, the fact that they are white, and the ready access these adolescents have to the substance. Although not statistically significant, adolescents were more likely to use cocaine if they knew of the risks associated with cocaine use. Hence the typical user may be a risk-taker, enjoying the dangers involved with cocaine use. The only statistical significant variable which inhibits the use of cocaine by Miami adolescents is the fact that religion is an important part of their lives.