Aggression, victimization and problem behavior among inner-city minority adolescents

The purpose of this study was to examine the relationships among problem be haviors during early adolescence. Specifically this investigation examined the association between drug use and aggression among a sample of inner-cit y adolescents. Eighth graders (N = 517; 49% boys) attending three New York City schools completed an anonymous questionnaire. Self-reported aggressive and unsafe behavior were associated with initiation of drug use (smoking, drinking alcohol, smoking marijuana). Sex differences were also found for a ggressive behavior, victimization, and unsafe behavior. The data have impli cations for prevention because reducing drug use might also decrease aggres sive and unsafe behavior. Social competence skills training, which has been found effective in drug use prevention programs, can be expanded to cover aggressive behavior and engagement in unsafe behavior.