Analysis and Profiles of Drug Use in Adolescents: Perception of Family Support and Evaluation of Consequences

Abstract

Objective: to analyze different patterns (regular or occasional) of drug use in adolescents and identify profiles of their consumption; verify the relationships established with respect to variables associated with decision-making of consumption (family support and evaluation of consequences). Methods: the sample was composed by 822 junior high school students from 13 to 18 years. The questionnaire was made ad hoc to know the socio-demographic and consumption data, and to evaluate the perceived family support. The subscale, of the same name, included in the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support was used. Results: there was a positive correlation between the assessment that adolescents made to the current relationship with their parents/guardians and the family support perceived. In addition, family support as well as the relationship with parents, negatively correlated with the frequency of tobacco use. Regular cannabis consumers showed significant differences in family support with respect to those who do not consume it on a regular basis. Conclusion: it is necessary to establish different profiles of consumption in adolescents, to design interventions and to implement healthy habits programs from Primary Care.