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Gender differences regarding peer influence and attitude toward substance abuse
B M Rienzi1, J D McMillin, C L Dickson
1Department of Psychology, California State University, Bakersfield 93311-1099, USA.
Journal of Drug Education
|January 1, 1996
Summary
Gender socialization impacts teen substance abuse attitudes. Boys showed higher approval for drinking, driving after drinking, and drug use compared to girls, with significant differences across multiple substances.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Public Health
Background:
- Gender role socialization significantly shapes adolescent perceptions and behaviors.
- Understanding gender-based differences in attitudes toward substance abuse is crucial for targeted prevention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate how gender role socialization influences teenagers' attitudes toward various forms of substance abuse.
- To compare male and female adolescents' perceptions of the acceptability of substance use and risky behaviors.
Main Methods:
- A questionnaire was administered to 968 students (456 males, mean age 16.20) to assess attitudes toward substance abuse.
- Statistical analysis (chi-squared tests) was used to compare male and female adolescents' approval levels for different substances and behaviors.
Main Results:
- Significant gender differences were observed in attitudes toward drinking beer/wine coolers, hard liquor, driving after drinking, smoking marijuana, smoking cigarettes, and taking diet pills (for weight loss or to get high).
- Adolescents perceived getting drunk at a party as more acceptable than driving after drinking.
- Boys received higher approval than girls for driving after drinking.
Conclusions:
- Gender socialization plays a distinct role in shaping adolescent attitudes toward substance abuse.
- Findings highlight the need for gender-specific interventions to address substance abuse and risky behaviors among teenagers.