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VIOLENCE AND ILLEGAL DRUG USE AMONG ADOLESCENTS: EVIDENCE FROM THE U.S. NATIONAL ADOLESCENT STUDENT HEALTH SURVEY

NCJ Number
147407
Journal
International Journal of the Addictions Volume: 27 Issue: 12 Dated: (1992) Pages: 1445-1464
Author(s)
P M Kingery; B E Pruitt; R S Hurley
Date Published
1992
Length
20 pages
Annotation
The relationships among violence, drug use, and victimization were examined in a representative sample of adolescents in the United States.
Abstract
The data came from the National Adolescent Student Health Survey administered in November and December of 1987 and January 1988. Participants included 3,789 students from 176 public and private schools. The analysis considered alcohol and the commonly used illegal drugs, including marijuana, amyl/butyl nitrites, psychedelics, amphetamines, and cocaine. Results revealed that, compared to nonusers, drug users fought more, took more risks that predisposed them to assault, and were assaulted more both at school and outside school supervision. Adolescents who were victims at school were also more likely to be victimized outside of school supervision. Findings clearly demonstrate that the aggressor may also be the victim and that use of alcohol and illegal drugs is related to victimization. Figures, tables, map, author photographs and biographies, and 43 references (Author summary modified)