The sociology of adolescent drug and drinking behavior: A review of the state of the field: Part I

Abstract

This is the first of two parts in which we assess the “state of the field” of adolescent substance use. In this part, we critically analyze the methodological issues of sampling, measurement, reliability, and validity of survey research on adolescent drinking and drug use. We also conduct a substantial review of the findings of research in this field concentrating on recent surveys, particularly those drawing on national samples among the general adolescent population. From that review, we summarize the state of knowledge about the extent and trends of use of alcohol and drugs among adolescents. In the second part, which will appear in the next issue of this journal, we conclude the assessment of the state of the field by reviewing the structural, interactional, and attitudinal correlates and the state of theory of teenage drinking and drug behavior.