Assessing the “Gateway Hypothesis” Among Middle- and High- School Students in Tennessee

ASU Author/Contributor (non-ASU co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
Matthew B. Robinson Ph.D., Professor (Creator)
Institution
Appalachian State University (ASU )
Web Site: https://library.appstate.edu/

Abstract: The current study examines the applicability of the “gateway hypothesis” to drug use patterns of secondary school students from a non-metropolitan area in Tennessee. The data were collected from students in the 8th, 10th, and 12th grades at three secondary schools, using self-administered questionnaires under supervision of teachers. Although there is some support for the gateway hypothesis in our data, there is also evidence that what differentiates those who move from initial marijuana use to use of harder drugs are risk factors unique to individuals and their environments, consistent with the predictions of theories such as problem behavior theory. Implications for various interpretations of the gateway hypothesis are discussed.

Additional Information

Publication
Choo, Tae, Sughoon Roh, and Matthew B. Robinson (2008). Assessing the 'Gateway Hypothesis' Among Middle- and High-School Students in Tennessee. Journal of Drug Issues 38(2): 467-492. ISSN: 0022-0426
Language: English
Date: 2008

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