Individual Characteristics of Adolescent Methamphetamine Users in Relation to Self-Reported Trouble with the Police

• NCJ Number: 231041
• Journal: Journal of Alcohol and Drug Education Volume: 54 Issue: 1 Dated: April 2010 Pages: 76-92
• Author(s): Ruth Gassman, Ph.D.; Carole E. Nowicke, Ph.D., M.L.S.; Mi Kung Jun, Ph.D.
• Date Published: April 2010
• Length: 17 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

Survey responses by nonexperimental drug users in grades 6-12 were examined to determine whether MA users and nonusers with shared individual characteristics experience differential rates of police trouble, and whether specific factors place some users at greater risk than others.

Abstract

Findings showed that police trouble is pronounced for MA users, regardless of the number of drugs used, grade level, self-identification as African, Mexican, Puerto Rican or Other Latin American, number of days absent from school, and reported participation in after-school and organized family activities. These same factors were associated with police trouble in both MA and nonMA drug users, however, more so for MA drug users. Implications for prevention and intervention are discussed. Tables and references (Published Abstract)