Peer influence processes as mediators of effects of a middle school substance use prevention program.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Peer influence processes have been linked to escalation in substance use during the middle school years, particularly among at-risk youth. In this study, we report on an approach to prevention that attempts to counteract peer influence by interrupting the process of deviant peer clustering, in which socially marginalized youth self-aggregate and reinforce delinquent behavior, including substance use. We aimed to interrupt this process by implementing collaborative, group-based learning activities in school (i.e., cooperative learning).

Methods

In a cluster randomized trial in the Pacific Northwest (N = 1460 7th-grade students in 15 schools), we tested whether cooperative learning can reduce alcohol and tobacco use, and whether these effects are mediated by reducti

SUBMITTER: Van Ryzin MJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7402525 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature