NCJ Number
114598
Journal
Journal of Clinical Psychology Volume: 44 Issue: 3 Dated: (May 1988) Pages: 461-473
Date Published
1988
Length
13 pages
Annotation
Four drug abuse intervention programs in Texas were studied with respect to the factors associated with short-term reductions of substance abuse, legal problems, and school problems in a sample of 326 Mexican-American youths who took part in the programs for 3 months during 1982-85.
Abstract
The programs were located in Austin, Del Rio, and Houston. They provided individual, group, and family counseling, together with recreational activities, community services, training in music and dance, and other activities. The analysis focused on the following variables: program participation, religious involvement, family and peer relations, peer substance use, and psychological status at intake. Both direct and indirect influences on problem behaviors were examined. The reduction of problem behaviors was related negatively to peer drug use during the program and was related positively to the amount of family support available during the program, participation in program activities, and a background of religious involvement. Findings support previous research that has shown the importance of peer influences and commitment to conventional structures of family and religion in relation to adolescent problem behaviors. Findings suggest that adolescent drug abuse programs should emphasize the development of positive peer relations and family support while encouraging dissociation from deviant friends. Tables and 26 references. (Author abstract modified)