Risk and protective factors for alcohol use among school-going adolescents in Montevideo (Uruguay)

This study explores risk and protective factors for alcohol use among school-going adolescents in Montevideo (Uruguay). Design/methodology/approach A self-report survey was administered to 331 school-going adolescents in Montevideo (Uruguay) (Mage= 13; SD = .05), using (i) the alcohol screening instrument of the Uruguayan National Drug Board to assess adolescents ’ alcohol use(yes/no), (ii) a screening instrument for psychopathology and resilience (the Adolescent Self Report), and (iii) a socio-demographic questionnaire. Findings Logistic regression analyses identified antisocial behavior, substance use and negative emotionality (F2), disruptive and dysr egulated behavior (F8), higher age and recent death of a close relative as risk factors, while the number of close friends was identified as a protective factor for past year alcohol use (yes/no). No straightforward relationship was found between schools and the risk for the past year alcohol use. I n addition, Age, F2, F8, and recent death of a close relative appeared to be the most robust predictors. Research limitations/implications The study was the first in Uruguay to relate adolescents’ alcohol use to risk and protective factors. Given the cross-sectional nature of the study, causal r elationships could not be determined. Originality/value The study provides preliminary recommendations for policy makers and other stakeholders involved in youth affairs on core elements to focus on school-, community- and family-b...
Source: Drugs and Alcohol Today - Category: Addiction Source Type: research