Abstract

The relationship among personal, social, family, and coping variables was examined with respect to alcohol, tobacco, and marijuana use by adolescents at risk for substance use. The adolescents studied had been placed in an alternative therapeutic high school due to diagnosed emotional and behavioral disorders, such as Depression or ADHD. Predictor variables examined were (a) negative mood regulation expectancy, (b) coping response (c) outcome expectancy (d) best friend substance use (e) perceived family support, and (f) motives for substance use. Hypotheses suggested main, moderated, and mediated effects of predictor variables on substance use. A cross-sectional correlational design was used. Sixty-three middle and high school students were asked to report their feelings, beliefs, and perceptions via self---report questionnaires. Data were analyzed using hierarchical multiple regression. Results highlighted the roles of family and peer context in predicting an adolescent's choice to use alcohol, tobacco, or marijuana. Findings suggested implications for prevention and intervention of substance use among emotionally and behaviorally challenged adolescents. Results highlighted the importance of family support and best friend influence on adolescent substance use.