Attitudes of Adolescents Toward Addictive Substances: Hope and Self-Control as Protective Factors

Background: Experiences of ostracism may be related to attitudes toward substance abuse. However, the protective factors underlying this relationship are still unclear. Therefore, based on the Need-threat and Self-control theory, we aimed to test a model in which self-control and hope mediate the relationship between ostracism and attitudes toward addictive substances. Methods: In this model, we highlighted risk factors (ostracism) and protective factors (self-control and hope). This study was a cross-sectional data analysis of 787 students (52.50% boys, 47.50% girls; M = 15.69, SD = 1.12). Results: The results revealed that ostracism was positively associated with attitudes toward addictive substances, and evidence was provided that this relationship was mediated by hope and self-control. Ultimately, the research highlights the link between ostracism and attitudes toward addictive substances, identifying hope and self-control as mediators. Conclusions: This study highlights individual risk and protective factors related to attitudes toward addictive substances and offers new perspectives on ways to prevent and reduce adolescents' positive attitudes toward substance use. School counselors and educators should help students strengthen skills such as hope and self-control to prevent them from developing positive attitudes toward substance use in the future.