DRUG-USE AND INTIMATE-RELATIONSHIPS AMONG WOMEN AND MEN - SEPARATING SPECIFIC FROM GENERAL EFFECTS IN PROSPECTIVE DATA USING STRUCTURAL EQUATION MODELS

This article presents the use of specific paths in structural equation models (SEMs) that allow separation and tests of both unique and comm on (latent) aspects of measured variables. Cross-sectional studies hav e established that problems in intimate relationships are related to d rug use, but the direction of these effects is unclear and is best add ressed by using SEMs with prospective data. Reciprocal effects between constructs of polydrug use and relationship quality were examined for 307 young women and 117 young men over a 4-year period while social c onformity was controlled for. No cross-lagged effects were found betwe en latent constructs, except for polydrug use, which increased later d ivorces for women. However, specific paths allowed tests of types of d rug use and relationship quality as both predictors and consequences. There were 8 effects for women and 6 for men from specific measures of drug use that adversely affected aspects of relationship quality. Con versely, only one effect was found from relationship quality to drug u se variables for both genders.