School Belonging Today, Substance Choices Tomorrow
Briefly

Research shows that a sense of belonging among students aged 15-16 plays a crucial role in shaping their substance use behaviors into adulthood. Those with a strong sense of belonging experienced a 25% reduction in the likelihood of using tobacco, cannabis, or other illicit substances up to age 28. This study, based on the Australian Temperament Project, emphasizes the importance of positive school experiences and academic confidence in protecting students from substance abuse across various development stages.
A sense of belonging in school at ages 15-16 significantly impacts long-term substance use, reducing likelihood by 25% across various ages into young adulthood.
For students with strong feelings of belonging, the odds of engaging in substance use like tobacco and cannabis diminish significantly, marking the importance of academic confidence.
Through our research, we've identified that positive school experiences and confidence correlate with lower odds of substance use, showing the critical role of school engagement.
The findings emphasize that a strong connection to school can provide protective effects against substance use, highlighting the importance of fostering a sense of belonging.
Read at Psychology Today
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