Several investigators have indicated the importance of familiar support and involvement during the adolescence. This has being described as a protective factor for violence, drug use and other misconduct behaviors. This study presents data from a representative sample (3,101) of those adolescents attending junior-high school levels from public and private schools in Puerto Rico that participate in the survey Consulta Juvenil IV in the academic year 1997-98. We studied the relationship of adolescents with their parents and how these were related to substance abuse and violence activities. Also we examined the relationship between parents misbehavior (substance use and violence) and adolescent behavior. Results: Most of students were females (53%). A great diversity was observed in the familiar composition with 58% living with both parents. Although most students reported to have a good relationship with their parents, 22.3% indicated that frequently their parents are not at home. Alcohol and cigarettes were the most frequently used substances by the students and their relatives. Other drug studied were marijuana, heroine, cocaine, crack and other illicit drugs. Not approval of drug use by parents was among the main reasons for not using drugs as report by adolescent. Seven percent reported having problems at home due to alcohol or illicit drugs at least one time during the last year. As health professionals we should understand and acknowledge adolescent’s family environmental characteristics. This knowledge will provide us with the tools for planning, design and implement adequate prevention programs necessary for attending the needs of this population.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant will be able to: 1. identified those misbehaviors that adolescent tend to imitated from their parents 2. understand the relationship of family composition with misconduct behavior in adolescent 3. understand the importance of parental role model as a protective factor for misconduct behavior in adolescents
Keywords: Family Involvement, Prevention
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.