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Protection and vulnerability processes relevant for early onset of substance use: a test among African American
T A Wills1, F X Gibbons, M Gerrard
1Health Psychology Training Program, Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology, and Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Yeshiva University, Bronx, New York 10461, USA. wills@aecom.yu.edu
Abstract:
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.