Citation

Wills TA, Gibbons FX, Gerrard M, Brody GH. Health Psychol. 2000; 19(3): 253-263.

Affiliation

Health Psychology Training Program, Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology, and Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Yeshiva University, Bronx, New York 10461, USA. wills@aecom.yu.edu

Copyright

(Copyright © 2000, American Psychological Association)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

10868770

Abstract

This research tested predictions from a self-regulation model of factors relevant for early onset of tobacco and alcohol use with a community sample of 889 African American children (mean age = 10.5 years). Criterion variables were peer substance use, willingness to use substances, and resistance efficacy (intention to refuse substance offers). Structural modeling indicated effects of temperament dimensions were mediated through self-control and risk-taking constructs, which were related to school involvement, life events, 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) parental support; and resistance efficacy was predicted by perceived vulnerability and (inversely) poor self-control. Findings are discussed with reference to theoretical models of early protection and vulnerability processes.

Language: en