Tracking and two statistical methods (probability weighting and sample selection modeling) were studied as ways to minimize bias attributable to sample attrition in school-based studies. Data on student smoking from 30 middle schools illustrate that sample weighting yields the best results, with estimates superior to sample selection and much less…

Examined reasons for not using tobacco, alcohol, and various other substances by students in relation to amount of self-reported substance use. Findings from 5,887 students in grades 6 through 12 revealed importance of information, self-concept, recreational and alternative activities, school policy, and adults as role models for use of various…

This article examines the extent to which the lifestyles of young people are affected by health and fitness considerations. An analysis of data from 3253 Health Related Behavior Questionnaires, completed by fourth-year secondary school pupils is presented. (IAH)

Contends that the increasingly central role of imagery in contemporary society calls for the development of a pedagogy emphasizing critical media literacy. Using examples from print advertisements for cigarettes, argues the need for cognitive competencies to withstand the onslaught of media messages, empowering individuals to become autonomous,…

A pilot study involving 90 percent of the parents of 200 seventh graders attending two junior high schools evaluated the effectiveness of active versus passive methods of obtaining parental consent. Passive consent can provide a viable alternative to active consent when supplemented by appropriate backup and privacy safeguards. (TJH)

Examines development and implementation of School Drug Policy in Ontario Boards of Education, components of these policies, and composition of policy development committees. Data from 125 Boards of Education were obtained for fall 1991. Results indicate that development and implementation of school drug policy, by not often including students,…

Offers a profile of drug use and attitudes among junior high school-aged youth (n=1,004) from 3 types of midwestern communities. Describes experience with and attitudes toward drug use for this population as a whole, as well as variations between and among groups by gender, age, grade level, ethnicity, and community size. (JPS)

A series of benefit programs for school personnel in a Maryland county includes a smoke-free workplace, an employee wellness program, and an employee assistance program. The county has been able to correlate a dramatic decrease in the cost of health insurance for employees with the activities of these programs. (MLF)

The Core Alcohol and Drug Survey helps universities obtain accurate information about the effectiveness of their substance abuse prevention efforts. The self-report tool examines the nature, scope, and consequences of college students' substance use. Currently, 500,000 students on 800 campuses have completed the survey. The article presents…

Fourth- through sixth-grade Mexican-American students were surveyed to identify gender differences for use of cigarettes, beer, wine/liquor, and marijuana. Overall, more males than females reported using larger numbers of substances with more frequency, though the differences tended to attenuate in the sixth grade. (SM)

Examines the use of alcohol by adolescents (N=535) in Dade County Public Schools during 1992. Significant factors that increase the probability of alcohol use are friends who drink, awareness of risks associated with alcohol use, and ease in obtaining alcohol. Family-related variables, smoking, religion, gender, race, academic performance, and…

Examines intergenerational conflict as a precursor to substance use among second-generation Asian-Indian adolescents. Based on systems theory, a structural model depicting the linkage and temporal sequelae of mediating factors is presented. Identifies risk and protective factors unique to Asian-Indian adolescents. Examines the impact of gender…

The overall effectiveness of patient education and counseling on preventive health behaviors was examined across published clinical trials, 1971-1994. The effectiveness of various approaches for modifying specific types of behaviors among patients without diagnosed disease was assessed. Multiple regression models indicated differences among…

In a study of Slovenian high school students (N=3,687) results show that those who had attempted suicide and those who had not differed in levels of self-esteem, emotional reaction to family problems, running away from home, and substance abuse. Differences in depression, suicide ideation, family suicide ideation, family suicide occurrence,…

A smoking prevention program for Hispanic immigrants in Canada was based on participatory community planning, cultural sensitivity, and a comprehensive health philosophy. After 12 educational sessions, participating children aged 8-14 engaged in more community activism and showed decreased intentions to smoke. Parents, children, and staff were…