Differences in Drug Use among Rural and Suburban High School Students in Ohio

Abstract

This exploratory study examines differences in the prevalence of drug use by gender among twelfth grade students (n = 464) in selected rural and suburban high schools in west-central Ohio. The lifetime use of alcohol and other drugs is common among all groups. Proportionally fewer boys in rural schools than boys in suburban schools reported the use of marijuana, inhalants, and LSD, or recent episodes of drunkenness. No statistically significant differences emerged between girls in rural and, suburban schools. Afterschool employment practices may help explain the observed differences. [Translations are provided in the International Abstracts Section of this issue.]

Key Words:

• Teenage drug use
• Rural teenage drug use
• Suburban teenage drug use
• Survey research