Psychosocial Factors Linked to Smoking and Drinking in Japanese Adolescents
Author Information
Author(s): Ando Mikayo, Asakura Takashi, Ando Shinichiro, Simons-Morton Bruce G
Primary Institution: Okayama University
Hypothesis
How do psychosocial variables influence smoking and drinking behaviors among Japanese early adolescents?
Conclusion
Self-assertive efficacy, parental involvement, school adjustment, and peer influence are important factors in preventing smoking and drinking among early adolescents in Japan.
Supporting Evidence
- Smoking was more prevalent in boys (7.9%) than girls (5.1%).
- Drinking prevalence was similar in boys (23.7%) and girls (21.8%).
- Self-efficacy to resist peer pressure was negatively associated with smoking and drinking.
- Parental involvement had indirect effects on smoking and drinking behaviors.
- School adjustment was negatively associated with smoking and drinking among girls.
Takeaway
This study found that kids who feel confident to say no to peer pressure and have involved parents are less likely to smoke or drink.
Methodology
A survey was conducted with junior high school students using self-reported questionnaires to assess psychosocial factors and substance use.
Potential Biases
Potential underreporting due to non-participation of students who may have been more likely to smoke or drink.
Limitations
The study relied on self-reported data, which may lead to socially desirable responses, and the cross-sectional design limits causal inferences.
Participant Demographics
Participants were 7th to 9th grade students (ages 12-15) from eight public junior high schools in Japan.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.01
Confidence Interval
0.36 – 0.47
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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