Relationship between Jamaican adolescents' drinking partners and self-image: a cross-cultural perspective

The data for this study were extracted from a larger study focusing on the self-image of Jamaican adolescents. Subjects for the present study were 176 adolescents who reported alcohol use. This exploratory investigation examined the relationship between drinking partner (adults vs. peers) and the self-image of Jamaican adolescents. Alcohol consumption among adolescents in Jamaica is not illegal and is considered culturally acceptable behavior. Analysis of the survey data revealed that the adolescents who consumed alcohol with adults had significantly higher self-evaluations on several dimensions of the Offer Self-Image Questionnaire (OSIQ) than those who drank with peers. Adolescents who had adult drinking partners reported experiencing less emotional fluctuation, had better family relationships, higher vocational and educational goals, were more socially conscious, and had better overall psychological adjustment. Discussion centers on social learning and psychosocial theories. Implications for future research are also discussed.