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Appearance-related teasing and substance use during early adolescence
Melanie Klinck1, Anna Vannucci2, Tessa Fagle2
1School of Medicine, University of Connecticut.
Summary
Appearance-related teasing significantly increases adolescent alcohol use, particularly binge drinking, but not marijuana use. This bullying impacts girls and overweight youth more severely, highlighting the need for early intervention.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Public Health
- Adolescent Development
Background:
- Appearance-related teasing is a common form of bullying among adolescents.
- The link between appearance-related teasing and substance use, specifically alcohol and marijuana, remains under-researched.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between appearance-related teasing and alcohol and marijuana use in middle school students.
- To examine the longitudinal impact of appearance-related teasing on changes in substance use.
Main Methods:
- A survey was administered to 1,344 middle school students (ages 11-14) assessing teasing, peer victimization, and substance use at two time points.
- Statistical analyses controlled for demographic factors, weight status, and depressive symptoms.
- Moderation analyses explored gender and weight status as potential moderators.
Main Results:
- Higher frequency of appearance-related teasing correlated with increased alcohol consumption, binge drinking, and marijuana use at baseline.
- Longitudinally, appearance-related teasing predicted greater increases in total alcohol consumption and binge drinking frequency.
- The association between teasing and alcohol use was stronger for girls and overweight/obese adolescents.
Conclusions:
- Appearance-related teasing is an early risk factor for alcohol use in adolescents.
- Interventions should address appearance-related teasing to prevent adolescent substance use.
- Targeted prevention efforts may be needed for girls and overweight/obese youth.
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