Gender differences in substance use among Mexican American school-age children

This study identified differences in gender between and among fourth, fifth, and sixth grade Mexican American students for use of four specific "minor" substances: cigarettes, beer, wine/liquor, and marijuana. Minor substances are believed to serve as a "gateway" to more intense and frequent use of minor and major substances. Students (N = 2,216; males 52% and females 48%) were surveyed to ascertain information pertaining to their substance use. The chi-square statistic found significant gender differences at the fourth and fifth grade for use of minor substances. Patterns of initiation of minor substance use by gender and grade are discussed in the context of substance use stage theory. Overall, results support the need for further research emphasizing within group variations in the substance use of singular ethnic groups.