Youth crowds and substance use: the impact of perceived group norm and multiple group identification

K.T. Verkooijen*, N.K. de Vries, G.A. Nielsen

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleAcademicpeer-review

Abstract

The impact of group identity on adolescent tobacco, alcohol, and marijuana use was examined through a postal survey. The study included adolescents who identified with 1 subgroup (n = 1425) as well as adolescents who identified with 2 (n = 895) or 3 (n = 339) subgroups. The results showed that identification with the pop, skate/hip-hop, techno, and hippie subgroups was associated with higher risks of substance use, whereas identification with the sporty, quiet, computer nerd, and religious subgroups was associated with lower risks. Perceived group norm mediated the group identity-substance use relationship. Furthermore, identification with multiple groups with corresponding norm increased norm-consistent substance use, whereas identification with multiple groups with opposing norms reduced normative behavior. Implications for health promotion are discussed.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)55-61
JournalPsychology of Addictive Behaviors
Volume21
Issue number1
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Jan 2007

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