Ta. Wills et al., Protection and vulnerability processes relevant for early onset of substance use: A test among African American children, HEALTH PSYC, 19(3), 2000, pp. 253-263
This research tested predictions from a self-regulation model of factors re
levant for early onset of tobacco and alcohol use with a community sample o
f 889 African American children (mean age = 10.5 years). Criterion variable
s were peer substance use, willingness to use substances, and resistance ef
ficacy (intention to refuse substance offers). Structural modeling indicate
d effects of temperament dimensions were mediated through self-control and
risk-taking constructs, which were related to school involvement, life even
ts, and perceived vulnerability to harmful effects of substances. Peer use
was predicted by life events, poor self-control, and parent-child conflict;
willingness was predicted by life events, risk taking, and (inversely) par
ental support; and resistance efficacy was predicted by perceived vulnerabi
lity and (inversely) poor self-control. Findings are discussed with referen
ce to theoretical models of early protection and vulnerability processes.