Area specific self-esteem scales and substance use among elementary and middle school children

The relationship between self-esteem and the use and expected use of legal and illegal drugs was examined. Students in grades four-nine (n = 2,032) representing 16 schools from Arkansas completed an anonymous questionnaire concerning self-esteem and drug use. Results indicated statistically significant differences both for home self-esteem and school self-esteem on 18 or 19 measures of use and expected use. Results for peer self-esteem showed no differences for any of 19 measures. Results suggest including area specific self-esteem enhancement as a potentially important part of comprehensive drug education programs. Findings also highlight the role parents and teachers may play by promoting self-esteem at home and school.