Poster #57 - Developmental Assets and Substance Use: The Role of Mediation

• In Event: ASC Poster Session II

Abstract

Consistent with the Positive Youth Developmental (PYD) framework (e.g., Benson, 2006), we assume that developmental assets shield adolescents from deviant influences and nonconforming behaviors. Using latent constructs to capture both external (e.g., safe neighborhoods) and internal (e.g., self-esteem) assets, we test models that predict their influence on substance use, while controlling for respondent demographics. Specifically, we expect that respondents who have higher levels of external and internal assets will be more likely to refrain from substance use. Additionally, we examine the direct, indirect, and total effects of external assets on substance use, controlling for internal assets and respondent characteristics.

We use data from the Project on Human Development in Chicago Neighborhoods (PHDCN) and structural equation modeling (SEM) to test our hypotheses. Our sample consists of 2,345 adolescents from 80 Chicago neighborhoods, who were 9 to 15 during the first wave of data collection. Results from our mediation model show that the effect of external assets on substance use is primarily indirect and is mediated through internal assets.

Authors

• Adrian M. Jones, Kent State University

• Allyson Drinkard, Summit Educational Initiative

• Richard Adams, Kent State University