Positive impact of competence skills and psychological wellness in protecting inner-city adolescents from alcohol use. Academic Article uri icon

Overview

abstract

  • Research has shown that competence enhancement prevention programs for substance use are effective in reducing alcohol use and other problem behaviors. However, less is known about the mechanisms by which high competence helps youth avoid negative outcomes. This study explored whether greater competence is associated with increased levels of psychological wellness that in turn deters subsequent alcohol use. Specifically, 1,459 students attending 22 middle and junior high schools in New York City completed surveys that included measures of competence (decision making, self-efficacy), psychological wellness, and alcohol use. Students completed surveys at baseline, 1-year follow-up, and 2-year follow-up. Data collectors administered the questionnaire following a standardized protocol during a regular 40-min class period. On the basis of a longitudinal structural equation model, adolescents who were highly competent reported greater psychological wellness, which was then associated with less drinking. These findings highlight the potential of alcohol prevention programs designed to enhance competence and psychological wellness.

publication date

  • June 1, 2002

Research

keywords

  • Adolescent Behavior
  • Alcohol Drinking
  • Mental Health
  • Self Efficacy
  • Urban Health

Identity

Scopus Document Identifier

  • 0036596432

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

  • 10.1023/a:1015479216401

PubMed ID

  • 12088140

Additional Document Info

volume

  • 3

issue

  • 2