Beer and bongs: differential problems experienced by older adolescents using alcohol only compared to combined alcohol and marijuana use

Abstract

Alcohol and other drug problems experienced by adolescents who use only alcohol compared to those who use both alcohol and marijuana (A+M) is studied. Using the national longitudinal survey of youth 1994 data, forward multiple regression analyses revealed that impulsivity, A+M use (compared to alcohol-only use), age, sex, religiosity, frequency of substance use were associated with a higher number of behavioral problems. Youth with more alcohol problems were found to be binge drinkers, impulsive, more frequent alcohol users, and nonHispanic. Implications and future research needs are discussed.

• Adolescence
• Alcohol and drug problems
• Marijuana use
• Alcohol use
• Co-morbid substance use