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This study examined the relationships between current anxiety problems and school engagement, community service or volunteer work, and paid work among U.S. adolescents. The 2018-2019 National Survey of Children's Health (NSCH) dataset was analyzed and included 24,609 adolescents ages 12-17 years. We conducted unadjusted and adjusted logistic regression analyzes. A total of 12.6% of adolescents had healthcare provider-confirmed current anxiety problems. Adolescents with current anxiety were at decreased odds of engaging in school (aOR = 0.35, 95%CI = 0.29, 0.41) and participating in community service or volunteer work (aOR = 0.72, 95%CI = 0.59, 0.86) compared to adolescents without current anxiety. Adolescents with current anxiety were at increased odds of participating in paid work (OR = 1.18, 95%CI = 1.01, 1.38). This study reports that U.S. adolescents with anxiety were less likely to engage in school and participate in community service or volunteer work, but were more likely to participate in paid work compared to their peers without anxiety. Results should inform future interventions targeting adolescents., Competing Interests: Declaration of Conflicting InterestsThe author(s) declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.

Objective: The current systematic literature review explores the factors contributing to anxiety among Asian international college students in the United States., Methods: A search of multiple electronic databases yielded seven relevant peer-reviewed articles published since 2018., Results: Findings indicated that academic stressors, lack of social support, and cultural barriers significantly contributed to anxiety among Asian international students. Additionally, demographic factors such as gender, age, and English proficiency may also influence anxiety levels., Discussion: Mindfulness-based interventions, peer support groups, and culturally sensitive counseling may reduce anxiety among Asian international students. Further research is needed to understand more thoroughly the complex interactions between these factors and anxiety in this population.

E-cigarettes are a popular type of nicotine product among youth in the United States. Hispanic youth, one of the fastest growing populations in the United States, are second only to white youth for e-cigarette use. Analysis of the Parents' Resource Institute for Drug Education data was conducted to determine past 30-day e-cigarette use among Hispanic youth ( n  = 4,602) and also examined school factors related to such use. Findings indicated that 13.8% of Hispanic youth used e-cigarettes in the past 30 days. Multivariate logistic regression analysis determined several school factors (e.g., poor grades, grade level) related to e-cigarette use. School-based prevention programs are needed to reduce and eliminate e-cigarette use among Hispanic youth.

The study objectives were to examine the relationships between healthcare provider-confirmed current anxiety problems and organized activity participation including sports, clubs/organizations, and other activities. We used data from the 2018-2019 National Survey of Children's Health including 24,356 adolescents 12-17 years old. Poisson and logistic regression analyses were conducted. About 13% of adolescents had current anxiety problems. Poisson regression results indicated that adolescents with anxiety problems were less likely to participate in a higher total number of organized activities compared to children without anxiety problems. Similarly, logistic regression results indicated that adolescents with anxiety problems were at reduced odds of participating in at least one organized activity compared to adolescents without anxiety problems. Specific to activity type, adolescents with anxiety problems were at reduced odds of participating in sports and clubs/organizations. Study findings should be considered when creating and implementing community health promotion and education prevention programs and interventions for adolescents., Competing Interests: Competing interestsThe authors have no relevant financial or non-financial interests to disclose., (© The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature 2022, Springer Nature or its licensor holds exclusive rights to this article under a publishing agreement with the author(s) or other rightsholder(s); author self-archiving of the accepted manuscript version of this article is solely governed by the terms of such publishing agreement and applicable law.)

Objectives: Smokers with financial and food insecurity may find it difficult to quit smoking and reduce their children’s tobacco smoke exposure (TSE). The objective was to examine the associations between child TSE and financial and food insecurity among U.S. school-aged children. Methods: We examined the 2018−2019 National Survey of Children’s Health data on 17,484 children 6−11 years old. Children were categorized into TSE groups: (1) No TSE: did not live with a smoker; (2) thirdhand smoke (THS) exposure alone: lived with a smoker who did not smoke inside the home; or (3) secondhand smoke (SHS) and THS exposure: lived with a smoker who smoked inside the home. We conducted weighted logistic, ordinal, and linear regression analyses to assess the relationships between child TSE status and financial and food insecurity, adjusting for covariates. Results: Overall, 13.1% and 1.8% of children had THS exposure alone and SHS and THS exposure, respectively. Compared to children with no TSE, children with THS exposure alone were at 2.17 increased odds (95% CI = 1.83, 2.58, p < 0.001) and children with SHS and THS exposure were at 2.24 increased odds (95% CI = 1.57, 3.19, p < 0.001) of having financial insecurity. Children with THS exposure alone were at 1.92 increased odds (95% CI = 1.58, 2.33, p < 0.001) and children with SHS and THS exposure were at 2.14 increased odds (95% CI = 1.45, 3.16, p < 0.001) of having food insecurity. Conclusions: Children with TSE are at increased risk of experiencing financial and food insecurity. When developing tobacco interventions, a holistic approach to tobacco control that addresses ways to decrease financial and food hardships may improve outcomes.

Anxiety is a common mental health issue among adolescents. Family is one influence on adolescent anxiety that warrants attention. We investigated the relationship between adolescent anxiety, demographic, and familial and parental factors using data from the 2017 National Child Health Survey. We found an estimated one adolescent in seven reported anxiety, and nearly one in five reported anxiety related to witnessing family violence. Our study's findings may aid in the creation of family level programs aimed at preventing and reducing anxiety among adolescents., (© 2022. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature.)

Children who are socioeconomically disadvantaged face a myriad of environmental hardships in the neighborhoods in which they live. This study examined the associations between home tobacco smoke exposure (TSE) and neighborhood support, neighborhood safety, and school safety among U.S. school-aged children. Children ages 6-11 years were included in this secondary analysis of 2018-2019 National Survey of Children's Health data (N = 17,300). Children's home TSE status was categorized into three levels: (1) no TSE: Child did not live with a smoker; (2) Outside TSE only: Child lived with a smoker who did not smoke inside the home; and (3) Inside TSE: Child lived with a smoker who smoked inside the home. Parent-reported measures of perceived neighborhood support, and neighborhood and school safety were examined; covariates included the child's age, sex, and race/ethnicity; the parent's education; the family's household structure, and federal poverty level. Weighted logistic and ordinal regression models were built adjusting for the covariates. In total, 13.2% of children had outside TSE and 1.7% of children had inside TSE. Multivariable logistic regression model results indicated that children with outside TSE were at decreased odds (AOR = 0.79, 95%CI = 0.65-0.96) of living in a supportive neighborhood compared to children with no TSE. Ordinal regression model results indicated that children with outside TSE (AOR = 0.77, 95%CI = 0.61-0.97) and children with inside TSE were at decreased odds (AOR = 0.62, 95%CI = 0.39-0.99) of going to a school that was perceived as safe. Community-level programs, policies, and funding are needed to improve neighborhood characteristics among children with TSE to improve their future health outcomes.

(1) Background: Home tobacco smoke exposure (TSE) and negative neighborhood characteristics adversely affect children's overall health. The objective was to examine the associations of child TSE status and neighborhood characteristics among U.S. school-aged children. (2) Methods: We conducted a secondary analysis of the 2018-2019 National Survey of Children's Health (NSCH) data including 17,300 U.S. children ages 6-11 years old. We categorized children's home TSE status into: (a) no TSE: child did not live with a smoker; (b) thirdhand smoke (THS) exposure alone: child lived with a smoker who did not smoke inside the home; and (c) secondhand smoke (SHS) and THS exposure: child lived with a smoker who smoked inside the home. We conducted a series of weighted linear and logistic regression analyses to assess the associations between child TSE status and neighborhood characteristics, adjusting for covariates. (3) Results: Overall, 13.2% and 1.7% of children were exposed to home THS alone and home SHS and THS, respectively. Compared to children with no TSE, children with home THS exposure alone and children with home SHS and THS exposure had a significantly lower total number of neighborhood amenities and children with SHS and THS exposure had a significantly higher total number of detracting neighborhood elements. (4) Conclusions: Children with TSE demonstrate disparities in the characteristics of the neighborhood in which they live compared to children with no TSE. TSE reduction interventions targeted to children with TSE who live in these neighborhoods are warranted.

Marijuana use among adolescents is a major public health problem. The purpose of this study was to examine whether past-year marijuana use among African American adolescent males differed based on age and school factors. Data from the 2015-2018 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) were analyzed. A national sample of African American students in grades 7 through 12 ( n  = 5,738) completed the survey. Results indicated that 14.7% reported using marijuana in the past year. Those at highest risk for past-year marijuana use were those who were male, were 16 to 17 years old, were in 9th through 12th grade, did not like going to school, and thought that most/all students in their grade used marijuana. Prevention professionals should consider the links among school attitudes, perceived social norms, and marijuana use when developing programs and interventions. Efforts are needed that are culturally competent and culturally sensitive to help reduce marijuana use rates among African American male adolescents. Future research is needed to further examine school perceptions and marijuana use among this population.

This study examined whether recent alcohol use among African American adolescents differed based on school experiences and perceptions toward school. A secondary analysis of the 2012 National Survey on Drug Use and Health was performed to answer research questions. Results from the multivariable logistic regression models revealed that male and female students at highest risk for recent alcohol use were those who hated/did not like going to school, never/seldom felt that the schoolwork they were assigned was meaningful and important, thought that the things they learned in school would be very/somewhat unimportant, got mostly grades C, D, and F the past semester, and felt that all/most of the students in their grade smoked cigarettes, used marijuana, drank alcohol, and got drunk weekly. Recommendations for future studies are included.

Transgender individuals are at increased risk for suicidal behaviors. We estimated lifetime suicidal ideation, planning, and attempts within a national sample of African American transgender individuals (n = 790). Using data from the 2015 US Transgender Survey, we found that 33.5% of these individuals had thought about attempting suicide at least once, 20.0% had planned to attempt suicide, and 38.0% had attempted suicide. Significant differences were found in regard to demographics and lifetime substance use; individuals who experienced intimate partner violence and used alcohol, marijuana, or other drugs were at the highest risk for attempting suicide. Our findings may assist health professionals in creating interventions designed to prevent suicide in this underserved and vulnerable population.

This study examined whether age plays a role in the relationship between religiosity and adolescent major depressive episodes (MDEs). The 2012 National Survey on Drug Use and Health data was examined. Odds ratios were computed to determine if the association between religiosity and MDE differed based on age of adolescent among 12-13-year-olds, 14-15-year-olds, and 16-17-year-olds. Results indicated that 9.7% of adolescents reported having an MDE within the past year. Past-year MDE did not differ based on religious attendance for any of the three age groups. However, 12-13- and 14-15-year-olds who did not feel their religious beliefs influence how they make decisions in their life were at increased risk for a past-year MDE. For 15-16-year-olds and 16-17-year-olds, those who did not feel it was important that their friends share their religious beliefs were at increased risk for a past-year MDE. Such findings appear to indicate that certain aspects of religiosity may provide a significant protective effect against adolescent MDE. Prevention professionals and health educators should consider these findings to help bolster ongoing and future MDE prevention efforts. Recommendations for future research are provided.

The Hispanic population is the fastest growing minority population in the United States. A growing body of literature suggests Hispanic individuals are at increased risk for substance use disorders. While much of the literature has focused on Hispanic heterosexual individuals, a paucity of literature has focused on Hispanic transgender individuals. More research is warranted on the prevalence and correlates to substance use among Hispanic sexual minorities, in particular Hispanic transgender individuals. The present study sought to examine correlates to lifetime illicit substance use among a national sample of transgender individuals. A secondary analysis of the 2015 Transgender Survey was conducted among 1,473 Hispanic transgender individuals. Weighted analyses reveal that 29% of Hispanic transgender individuals reported lifetime illicit substance use. Significant predictors included age and prior lifetime substance use. Recommendations for health professionals and policy analysts are included.

Background: Non-medical opioid use (NMOU) is a national public health concern with no signs of abating. While much research has focused on opioid use among adults, significant gaps exist on NMOU among youth., Objective: The present study sought to identify the prevalence and correlates to NMOU use among a national sample of US youth ages 12-17 years old over multiple years of data., Methods: The National Survey on Drug Use and Health, a repeated, cross-sectional, nationally representative survey of youth and adults in the US, was analyzed. Aggregated NSDUH data (2015-2018) was used to analyze NMOU among 54,866 youth (28,032 males, 26,834 females). Weighted analyses were conducted to determine significant associations to past-year non-medical opioid use., Results: Weighted analyses revealed that 3.36% of youth used opioids non-medically in the past year. Compared to 2015, there was a significant decrease in the odds of past-year use in 2017 and 2018. NMOU users tended to be African American, Hispanic, reported major depression in the past year, and engaged in fighting with other youth. Compared to non-users of illegal drugs, youth who used marijuana, alcohol, and cigarettes were more likely to use opioids in the past year., Conclusion: The present study found that opioid use is declining among youth. Findings may aid harm reduction efforts, theory-based clinical interventions, and health prevention messaging on opioid use.

Background: The recent use of LSD to treat severe psychological disorders in several clinical applications has proven effective in reducing symptoms and distressing events. Trend analyses are warranted to provide the most current data for clinical and health interventions. The purpose of this study was to examine trends in LSD use among adults in the United States., Methods: A secondary analysis of the 2015-2018 National Survey on Drug Use and Health was conducted on 168, 562 adults ages 18 and older., Results: Past-year LSD use increased 56.4% (P < .0001) from 2015 to 2018. The proportion of LSD users ages 26-34 increased from 19.6% to 31.1% (P < .0001), ages 35-49 increased from 2.73% to 8.82% (P < .0001) and 50 years or older increased from 1.83% to 2.66% (P < .0001). LSD use among bisexual individuals increased from 11.2% to 13.0% (P < .0001). LSD use among individuals with a college degree or more increased from 18.2% to 31.1% (P < .0001). Significant decreases in LSD use were present in individuals who were multi-racial (P < .0001), less than high school education P < .0001), high school education (P < .001), and perceived great risk of drugs (P < .0001)., Conclusions: LSD use in the US jumped 56.4% from 2015 to 2018. Results from the present study can inform prevention and harm reduction efforts (e.g., co-morbid substance use interventions, health messaging)., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of this paper., (Copyright © 2020 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Blunt use is a pressing public health problem in the United States. While most studies have focused on African American youth, there remains a paucity of research examining blunt use among Hispanic individuals. Previous findings, which are quite limited, suggest mixed results, thus warranting further investigation regarding the prevalence of blunt use among Hispanic individuals and factors associated with such use. In accord with Jessor's problem behavior theory, we hypothesized that prior use of illicit substances and certain psychosocial risk factors pose an increased risk for blunt use among Hispanic adults. A secondary analysis examined prior substance use and psychosocial factors of 10,216 Hispanic lifetime blunt users participating in the 2017 National Survey on Drug Use and Health. Findings revealed that one in five (20.5%) Hispanic individuals reported lifetime blunt use. Significant risk factors associated with blunt use were age (18+ years or older), participation in a government assistance program, prior illicit substance use, and changes in appetite or weight. Additional research on other risk factors, prevention mechanisms, and treatment interventions for Hispanic individuals who use blunts is warranted.

Alcohol use among college students is a national health concern. The epidemiology of alcohol use among Middle Eastern college students remains to be investigated. This study sought to understand the epidemiology of recent alcohol use among Middle Eastern college students. We use data from the 2017 to 2018 Healthy Minds Study to identify predictors of recent alcohol use among 1,763 Middle Eastern students nationwide. Weighted univariate analyses were conducted to determine significant predictors of recent alcohol use. Nearly half (45.5%) of Middle Eastern college students reported using alcohol in the past 2 weeks (recent alcohol use). Those at highest risk for recent alcohol use were in their 4th year of schooling ( p  <   .001), living in a fraternity or sorority house ( p  <   .001), and reported that religion was not a big part of their life ( p  <   .001). Students who lived with their parents were less likely to drink alcohol ( p  <   .   001). Recent alcohol use among Middle Eastern college students is a national public health concern. Interventions are warranted to decrease this growing public health anomaly and to more effectively deal with this current public health crisis.

Although numerous prevention efforts have been implemented, marijuana remains the most commonly used illicit substance among Hispanic adolescents nationwide. We sought to determine the influence authoritative parenting behaviors have on lifetime, past year, and past month marijuana use among Hispanic adolescents overall, and then based on age (i.e., 12-13, 14-15, and 16-17 years). We conducted a secondary analysis of the 2012 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (N = 3457). We performed a series of logistic regression analyses. Nearly one-fifth (19.5%) of Hispanic participants reported lifetime marijuana use, 14.5% reported past year use, and 7.5% reported past month use. Results indicated that Hispanic adolescents who are at significantly increased risk for reporting lifetime, past year, and past month marijuana use, were those who reported that their parents seldom or never performed the following behaviors: (1) checked if their homework was done, (2) helped them with their homework, (3) limited the amount of TV they watched, (4) told them they did a good job, and (5) told them they were proud of them. There were no relationships between adolescents' lifetime, past year, or past month marijuana use and whether their parents made their youth do chores or limited their time out on a school night. Regarding age, while results indicated that most authoritative parenting behaviors have a significant effect against marijuana use, the protective effect diminished with age, with the exception of the relationship between adolescents' past month marijuana use and whether their parents checked to see if their homework was done. Substance use prevention programs for this population should start in early adolescence and involve and educate parents on adopting authoritative parenting behaviors.

This study examined whether past month marijuana use among African American adolescents differed based on school experiences and individual feelings toward school. A secondary analysis of the 2012 National Survey on Drug Use and Health was conducted to answer research questions. Results from the multivariable logistic regression analyses revealed that female students at highest risk for recent use included those who held negative feelings toward school (OR 2.723, CI 1.683, 4.406, p < .001), felt courses were not interesting (OR 2.695, CI 1.513, 4.798, p < .01), and received mostly C's/D's/ F's in the last semester (OR 2.520, CI 1.614, 6.711,p < .001). For males, results indicated that male students at highest risk included those who held negative feelings toward school (OR 2.364, CI 1.365, 4.094, p < .01), felt things learned in school would not be important later in life (OR 3.470, CI 1.951, 6.173, p < .001), and received mostly C's/ D's/F's in the last semester (OR 2.733, CI 1.734, 4.309, p < .001). In the final model, of those who felt that most or all students in their grade used marijuana, males were 3 ½ times (OR 3.418, CI 1.741, 6.711, p < .001) and females were 8 times (OR 8.288, CI 3.526, 19.480, p < .001) more likely to have recently used marijuana. Such findings can be used by prevention specialists and health educators to develop and implement marijuana prevention programs and interventions specifically tailored to African American adolescents. Recommendations for future research are included.

Peer victimization at school is a pressing public health issue. Peer victimization has a deleterious impact on the victim and can lead to lifelong negative outcomes such as depression. The purpose of the present study is to examine peer victimization and potential individual, school, and peer correlates in a national sample of middle and high school students. A secondary data analysis of the School Crime and Safety survey was conducted to investigate study aims. Greater than one in 20 (7.2%) of students reported peer victimization at school. Multiple individual factors were found to increase the odds of victimization including grade level, grades received, and school avoidance among other variables. School and peer factors were also found to be significant. Study findings may be useful to school personnel for reducing peer victimization at school. Specific recommendations for school personnel are offered.

Notwithstanding the efforts of health educators and other health professionals regarding tobacco and smoking cessation, research indicates that hookah smoking among college students remains a health concern. Research shows an upward trend in college students' hookah use. The purpose of this study was to identify and describe potential patterns/differences in college students' hookah use, and the relations among attitudes toward and knowledge about hookah use and use of this drug. A four-page, 20-item survey was used to collect data from participants (N = 403) and to measure participants 'recent use, knowledge of health risks, attitudes and reasons for hookah use among college students. Results indicated increased prevalence rates (53.8%) among participants of this study. Participants' recent hookah use was consistent with that of current research. Study findings supports current research, which found that college students have low negative perceptions of the health risks (addictive and detrimental properties) of hookah use. Analyses also determined that college students' attitudes toward hookah was associated with use of this drug. Regarding reasons why students may use hookah, data analysis indicated statistical significance in lifetime hookah use based on reasons for use. Study provide information for health educators creating hookah risk awareness educational programs aimed at reducing rates of hookah smoking among college students.

The rate of Hookah use among college students during the last decade is about 30%. Although college students perceive hookah use as a safer alternative to conventional cigarettes, hookah use increases the risk of disease and nicotine dependence, and therefore remains an area of concern. Presently, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has little regulation for the manufacture, distribution, or sale of hookah. This review attempts to assess empirical literature relating to hookah use while focusing on the consequences for regulatory policy. PubMed (including MEDLINE 2010-2017), PsycINFO, EBSCO, Scopus (Elsevier) databases were examined to pinpoint articles published in English. The following terms were used in the searches: Hookah or Waterpipe or nargile or "arghile" or "shisha" or "hubble bubble" or "alternative tobacco product" or "flavored tobacco". Hookah use may initiate smoking among tobacconaïve college students. College students who use hookah are generally not aware of the increased risks for tobacco related diseases as it relates to their behavior. In addition, few public health messages target college-age adults with anti-hookah messages. A lack of information regarding the dangers and potential harms of hookah use may be misinterpreted as a sign of "safety" which inadvertently may imply a suggestion of no need for safety measures. Hence, a research agenda that would inform about health policy actions has been proposed.

Heat-related illness (HRI), injury, and death among oil spill cleanup responders can be prevented through training and educational materials. This study assessed heat-related training and educational materials currently used and desired by oil spill cleanup responders. A needs assessment was completed by 65 oil spill cleanup responders regarding their occupational heat-related experiences and training needs. Oil spill cleanup responders reported participating on average in 37 oil spill cleanup activities per year. Most reported experiencing additional HRI risk factors, such as high temperatures and humidity and wearing personal protective equipment and clothing ensembles, respirators, and personal flotation devices. Many reported experiencing symptoms of HRI (profuse sweating, headache, weakness, decreased urine output, high body temperatures) and experiencing heat exhaustion. Although multiple prevention controls were reported, only 1 in 4 reported using an acclimatization plan. The most common training delivery method and education received included just-in-time training and printed materials. The most desirable future training delivery methods and education products were smartphone or tablet applications, printed materials, and online training. Findings from this study may be beneficial to safety and health professionals and health educators, particularly those interested in developing heat stress training and educational materials for oil spill cleanup responders., Competing Interests: Declaration of conflicting interests:The author(s) declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.

The purpose of this study was to examine factors associated with school violence perpetration among African American youth. African American students in 7th through 12th grade (n = 7488) in schools within one Metropolitan area completed the Pride National Drug Survey. Chi square analyses revealed school violence perpetration significantly differed based on grade and prosocial behavioral involvement. Students in 7th-8th grade (54.7%) were more likely to engage in school violence in comparison to 9th-12th grade students (48.8%). Students with low prosocial behavior (52.8%) involvement were more likely than their counterparts (48.9%) to engage in school violence perpetration. Logistic regression also indicated females and 9th-12th students with low prosocial behavior involvement were significantly less likely than their counterparts to engage in school violence. Findings should be considered by health educators and prevention specialists when developing programs and efforts to prevent in school violence perpetration among African American students.

This study examined whether authoritarian parenting, school experiences, depression, legal involvement and social norms predicted recent alcohol use and binge drinking among a national sample of Hispanic youth. A secondary data analysis of the National Survey on Drug Use and Health was performed (N = 3457). Unadjusted odds ratios were computed via univariate logistic regression analyses and significant variables were retained and included in the multivariable logistic regression analyses. Results indicated that in the past 30 days, 13.8 % of Hispanic youth drank alcohol and 8.0 % binge drank. Hispanic youth at highest risk for alcohol use were 16-17 years of age, experienced authoritarian parenting, lacked positive school experiences, had legal problems, and felt that most students at their school drank alcohol. Results should be considered when developing and implementing alcohol prevention efforts for Hispanic youth. Multiple approaches integrating family, school, and peers are needed to reduce use.

Violent victimization and school safety continues to be a major health concern in the United States. This study examines whether there is an association between school violent victimization and perceived school safety among youth. The PRIDE Questionnaire for 6th-through 12th-grade students, which assesses violent victimization and perceived school safety, was completed voluntarily by students (N = 54,938) in a large Midwestern city. Results indicated that a sizeable percentage of youth felt unsafe at school. Perceived school safety differed based on gender, grade, and race. Students experiencing violent victimization reported lower levels of school safety than their counterparts did. Such findings have important implications for school health professionals and prevention specialists interested in protecting youth from violent victimization and enhancing student safety at school.

This study examines the psychosocial determinants of marijuana use among youth. A total of 7,488 African American middle and high school students from 133 metropolitan private and public schools completed a survey assessing psychosocial factors associated with annual marijuana use. The PRIDE survey, a nationally recognized survey on substance use, was used to assess the frequency of marijuana use and the influence of psychosocial factors on marijuana use among African American students. Results indicated that 18.5% of African American youth used marijuana in the past year. Males were significantly more likely than females to report using marijuana. Engaging in risky behaviors, such as getting in trouble at school and with police and attending a party with alcohol and other drugs, were significantly correlated with annual marijuana use. Conversely, having multiple parent, teacher, and school protective factors reduced annual marijuana use in this population. Such findings may assist prevention specialists in developing interventions to reduce and prevent marijuana use.

The study purpose is to address the underutilization of mental health services among Hispanic youth. This article provides professionals with strategies to increase health services utilization by utilizing a framework of the levels of prevention model, with an emphasis on primary prevention. The following questions were explored: (1) What are primary prevention strategies that can assist school professionals? (2) What are secondary prevention strategies and tertiary prevention strategies school professionals can employ to increase the utilization of health services? Implementing primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention strategies may improve Hispanic youth's overall mental health, academic achievement, and quality of life.

Bullying is a significant problem in U.S. schools. The purpose of the present study is to examine the impact student bullying has on avoidance behaviors and fear at school among youth nationwide. Data from the School Crime and Safety Survey was analyzed. Participants included 5,784 U.S. students in grades 5 through 12. Almost one-third of students reported being bullied in the past year. Females, junior high school students, and public school students were significantly more likely to report being bullied than their counterparts. Students who were bullied were significantly more likely than students who had not been bullied to report fear and avoidance. Prevention and intervention programs are needed to reduce bullying and negative consequences associated with the behavior.

Alcohol use and involvement in school violent victimization are two significant public health problems among Hispanic youth. The present study examined alcohol use by involvement in school violent victimization among seventh through twelfth grade Hispanic students in one metropolitan area. The Pride Student National Survey was administered to students in their school classrooms. Results indicated that Hispanic students who were involved in school violent victimization were at increased risk for recent alcohol use and frequent episodic heavy drinking compared to Hispanic students who were not involved. Logistic regression revealed Hispanic males, junior high school, and high school students were at increased odds for recent alcohol use based on involvement in school violent victimization. Regarding frequent episodic heavy drinking, Hispanic males, females, and high school students were at increased odds. These findings can aid professionals in developing effective prevention programs and efforts for this high-risk population. Recommendations for future studies are included.

Depression is a prevalent illness affecting youth across the nation. The study purpose was to examine depression and authoritarian parenting among youth from 12 to 17 years of age. A secondary data analysis of the National Survey on Drug Use and Health was performed in the present study. All participants in the present study were youth (N = 17,399) nationwide. The results revealed that 80.6% of youth participants reported having five or more depressive symptoms. Parenting styles based on depression significantly differed among males, females, 12-13-year-olds, 14-15-year-olds, and 16-17-year-olds. Specifically, those who reported experiencing authoritarian parenting practices were more likely to report depressive symptoms compared to their counterparts who experienced authoritative parenting practices. Emphasizing the role of the parents and teaching positive parenting practices and authoritative parenting styles may increase success of prevention programs.

Objective: The purpose of this study was to examine well-being or flourishing of adolescents with asthma as well as factors influencing flourishing for these adolescents., Methods: A secondary analysis of data collected for the 2011-2012 National Survey of Children's Health was conducted. Flourishing of adolescents with and without asthma was compared. Parent coping and anger, child sex and age and child flourishing were examined for adolescents with asthma., Results: Youth with asthma had lower flourishing than those without this disease. Positive parent coping was related to flourishing, while parent anger negatively influenced flourishing of adolescents with asthma. Interaction terms were significant, indicating that the aforementioned variables interacted with adolescent age and sex., Conclusions: Study results point to a complex relationship between parent- and adolescent-level factors and adolescent well-being. Further research is needed to examine relations among flourishing and health outcomes in youth with asthma.

Background: The primary purpose of this study was to determine if recent alcohol use and binge drinking was associated with school experiences among Hispanic youth., Methods: We performed a secondary analysis of the 2012 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH). The NSDUH was administered to Hispanic youth (N = 3457) in the privacy of their own homes. The school experience score was dichotomized into negative and positive school experiences., Results: A total of 13.8% of Hispanic youth reported recent alcohol use, and 8.0% reported that they had engaged in binge drinking. Hispanic youth who reported having negative school experiences were at increased odds for reporting recent alcohol use and binge drinking compared to counterparts with positive school experiences. Specifically, Hispanic students who were at highest risk for reporting recent alcohol use and binge drinking were in the age group 14 to 15 years, and the age group 16 to 17 years who reported having negative school experiences., Conclusions: These findings on school experiences should be considered when developing and implementing school-based prevention programs targeting Hispanic youth., (© 2015, American School Health Association.)

Background: Marijuana use rates remain higher among Hispanic youth compared to youth from other ethnic groups., Objectives: The purpose of the study was to examine if sex, age, authoritarian parenting, perceived school experiences, lifetime depression, legal involvement, and perceived social norms of marijuana use predicted recent marijuana use and past year marijuana use among Hispanic youth., Methods: The participants of this study were a nationwide sample of Hispanic youth (n = 3,457) in the United States. A secondary data analysis of the 2012 National Survey on Drug Use and Health was performed. Unadjusted odds ratios were computed via univariate logistic regression analyses and all statistically significant variables were retained and included in the final multiple logistic regression analyses. Recent marijuana use was operationally defined as use within the past 30 days, and marijuana use in the past year was defined as use within the past year., Results: Results indicated that 7.5% of Hispanic youth used within the past month and 14.5% of Hispanic youth used within the past year. Results revealed that significant predictors for recent use were age, authoritarian parenting, perceived school experiences, legal involvement, and perceived social norms of youth marijuana use. Predictors for past year were age, perceived school experiences, legal involvement, and perceived social norms of youth marijuana use., Conclusions/importance: Findings from this study can be used to address the public health problem of marijuana use among Hispanic youth that is ultimately contributing to health disparities among this ethnic group nationwide. Recommendations for future studies are included.

Youth suicide is a serious public health issue in the United States. It is currently the third leading cause of death for youth aged 10 to 19. School-based prevention programs may be an effective method of educating youth and enhancing their help-seeking. Most school-based suicide prevention programs have not been rigorously evaluated for their effectiveness. This evaluation employs a comparison group to measure whether program group participants differed significantly from comparison group participants on pretest-posttest measures while assessing the immediate impact of the Surviving the Teens® Suicide Prevention and Depression Awareness Program. Findings indicate several positive outcomes in program group students' suicide and depression knowledge, attitudes, confidence, and behavioral intentions compared with the comparison group. Suicide prevention specialists and prevention planners may benefit from study findings., (© 2014 Society for Public Health Education.)

School violent victimization is a serious public health problem among youth. The current study investigated the association between youth alcohol use and school violent victimization among middle school and high school students (N=54,361). The PRIDE national survey for Grades 6-12 was administered to youth in their classrooms. Results indicated that 38.3% of students were involved in school violent victimization. School violent victimization differed significantly based on sex, race, and grade level. Logistic regression analyses indicated that school violent victimization was directly related to elevated alcohol use in the past 12 months and episodic heavy drinking among youth. Findings from this study may be beneficial to school nurses in creating bullying and substance abuse prevention programs for students. Recommendations for future research are included.

Stigma is recognized as a potential barrier to seeking help for a mental health disorder. The present study assessed college students' perceived benefits and barriers to obtaining mental health treatment and stigma-related attitudes via a four-page survey. A total of 682 students at one Midwestern university participated in the study. Findings indicated that females perceived a greater number of benefits to having participated in mental health services and held significantly lower stigma-related attitudes than did males. Students who had ever received mental health services reported significantly more barriers to treatment than did students who had never received services. Health professionals should target students with educational programs about positive outcomes related to receiving mental health services and work with treatment centers to reduce barriers for receiving services.

Research on substance use among Hispanic youth is lacking. The purpose of this study was to examine over-the-counter drug use among Hispanic youth. Of Hispanic youth, 23.9% used an over-the-counter drug for the purpose of getting high. Involvement in prosocial behaviors was correlated with decreased over-the-counter use for females and high school students. Involvement in risky behaviors increased the risk of use for males, females, junior high school students, and high school students. Significant differences were found based on parent, peer, teacher, and school factors. Prevention and intervention programs should address over-the-counter drug use among Hispanic youth.

Nonmedical prescription drug (NMPD) use is a significant health issue among youth. The purpose of this study was to examine NMPD use among students in 7th through 12th grades. A total of 54,631 students participated in the study, which utilized the PRIDE Questionnaire. A total of 13.6 % of youth reported lifetime NMPD use. Hispanic youth were more likely than white or African American youth to report use of NMPDs. Engaging in high levels of pro-social behaviors and having high levels of parent and teacher/school protective factors decreased the odds of use among males, females, 7th and 8th grade students and 9th through 12th grade students. Conversely, engaging in risky behaviors and having friends who used other substances increased the odds for use. Study findings highlight the increasing problem of prescription drug use. Prevention professionals may benefit from findings that can be used to tailor educational initiatives to students.

Synthetic THC, also known as fake marijuana, is used by college students in the United States. The present study examined reasons for recent synthetic THC use among college students (N = 339). Students completed a 3-page survey during regularly scheduled class times. Results indicated students reported using synthetic THC for curiosity, to get high, and the fun of feeling high. No significant differences in reasons for use were found based on sex and grade. College students reported most often obtaining synthetic THC from head shops. Study findings may be beneficial to college health professionals and others working with college students. High rates of lifetime use may suggest that educational and intervention programs are needed.

A total of 54,361 students in seventh through twelfth grades completed a survey examining the impact of perceived harm of marijuana use, ease of access in obtaining marijuana, and perceived parent/peer disapproval of marijuana use on youth involvement in annual and recent marijuana use. Results indicated that 1 in 6 (16%) students used marijuana in the past year, while 1 in 10 (10%) used marijuana in the past month. Students at highest risk for marijuana use were those who felt use was not harmful/somewhat harmful, felt it was easy/very easy to access marijuana, and had parents/peers who did not disapprove of use. Findings can assist prevention specialists to more thoroughly understand how perceived harm, ease of access, and parent/peer disapproval affect marijuana use among youth. Consistent parent-child communication on marijuana use should be encouraged.

Survey response rates were examined for differences based on the location of the respondent code, a numerical code placed on the survey versus a numerical code placed on the return envelope. A four-page survey on criteria and procedures used when hiring health education faculty members was mailed to program coordinators of university health education programs (N = 223). Half of the coordinators (n = 112) received coded surveys (surveys that had a written overt three-digit code at the top right corner of the first page of the survey). The other half of the coordinators (n = 111) received coded return envelopes (return envelopes with a six-digit code typed directly under the return mailing address). A total of 132 coordinators returned completed surveys (62%). Response rate did not differ significantly based on placement of respondent code. Survey researchers are thus recommended to devote their efforts to other inducement strategies to increase response rates.

A total of 7488 7th-12th grade African-American students completed a survey assessing factors associated with recent alcohol use. Results indicated that 13.6% used alcohol in the past month. A series of odds ratios revealed that making good grades, participating in school activities, attending church, and having parents/teachers talk about the dangers of alcohol and set/enforce rules regarding alcohol were associated with decreased recent use. Participating in risky behaviors such as getting into trouble, skipping school, and having friends who use alcohol and other drugs was directly related to recent use. Prevention specialists should encourage parents/teachers to engage youth in family, school, and community activities to deter alcohol use. Results may assist youth health professionals in developing prevention programs aimed at African-American youth.

Currently, suicide is the third leading cause of death among youth 18 to 24 years of age and the second leading cause of death on college campuses. A sample of students (N = 1,019) from three midwestern universities were surveyed regarding their perceived self-efficacy in identifying suicide warning signs and campus suicide intervention resources. The results indicated that 11% strongly believed they could recognize a friend at suicidal risk, while 17% strongly believed they could ask a friend if he or she was suicidal. Students who had received high school suicide prevention education and who had ever had a family member or friend express suicidal thoughts to them were those most confident in recognizing a friend at risk, asking a friend if he/she is suicidal, and helping a friend to see a counselor. Most (71%) were not aware of on-campus help resources. These findings underscore the importance of suicide prevention education throughout the high school and college years.

Problem: Unsafe driving and passenger behaviors place teens at increased risk for fatal and nonfatal crashes. This study evaluated the short-and long-term efficacy of the You Hold the Key (YHTK) Teen Driving Countermeasure., Method: A two-page survey was completed by high school students at pretest, posttest, and long-term (6-month) posttest., Results: YHTK was associated with significant immediate and long-term improvements in teen seatbelt use, safe driving, and perceived confidence in preventing drunk driving. Compared to pretests, students at immediate and long-term posttest more frequently wore seatbelts when driving or riding, required passengers to wear seatbelts, and limited the number of passengers to the number of seatbelts in the vehicle. Students were more likely at both posttests to avoid drinking and driving and to say no to riding with a friend who had been drinking., Summary: YHTK was associated with increases in safe teen driving and passenger behaviors., Impact on Industry: Success of YHTK is most notably due to its comprehensive nature. Future programs should consider comprehensive strategies when attempting to modify teen behaviors.

Objective: To examine the effectiveness of a secondhand smoke media campaign on adult smokers' willingness to protect children from secondhand smoke., Methods: Following a series of community awareness ads, a random sample of 390 adult smokers was surveyed via telephone regarding their perceptions of secondhand smoke., Results: Seeing or hearing the ads was significantly associated with intentions to personally smoke outside of the home and to ask visitors to smoke outside. Most smokers were committed to protecting children from secondhand smoke., Conclusion: Secondhand-smoke media campaigns can positively affect smokers' knowledge of the dangers of secondhand smoke and future intentions to protect others from secondhand smoke.

High levels of self-esteem and positive school, peer, and family connections represent protective factors against youth involvement in risky behavior. This paper reports findings from year one of the Healthy Kids Mentoring Program, a multidisciplinary mentoring program for fourth-grade students in a Midwestern public school. In October 2000, 28 fourth-grade students were admitted into the program, based on findings from a 55-item survey distributed to all fourth-grade students (N = 283) regarding overall self-esteem, school, peer, and family connectedness and involvement in risky behavior. The program, which ran from January 2000 to May 2000, consisted of four components: 1) relationship building, 2) self-esteem enhancement, 3) goal setting, 4) academic assistance. Pretest-Posttest data showed significant improvements at posttest in mentored students' self-esteem levels and positive connections to school, peers, and family. Mentored students also were significantly less likely to be depressed or involved in bullying and fighting at posttest than at pretest. Compared to nonmentored students, mentored students reported significantly higher school and family connectedness scores at posttest. Recommendations for effective mentoring program design are offered.