What is it about?

This study investigates how parenting practices influence substance use among 5th and 6th-grade children in Mexico. Using data from over 52,000 students, the research highlights key factors, including parental monitoring, substance-specific communication, and parental substance use, that impact children's likelihood of trying tobacco, marijuana, inhalants, and other substances. The study uses machine learning to identify high-value targets for prevention efforts, offering insights into how parenting behaviors can help reduce substance initiation in childhood.

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Why is it important?

Substance use in childhood can lead to long-term health and social problems, and early prevention is critical. This study provides valuable evidence that parenting practices—such as monitoring children’s activities and avoiding parental substance use—can play a significant role in preventing early substance use. By focusing on culturally relevant and modifiable parenting behaviors, the findings help inform effective, targeted interventions for Mexican families.

Perspectives

This research highlights the power of parenting in shaping children’s choices and offers practical pathways for prevention. By identifying specific parenting behaviors that reduce substance use, we aim to support families and policymakers in addressing this urgent issue. We believe this work underscores the importance of empowering caregivers with the knowledge and tools they need to foster healthier outcomes for children, especially in high-risk communities.

Dr. Alejandro L. Vázquez
University of Tennessee Knoxville

Read the Original

This page is a summary of: Parent Characteristics and Practices Classify Lifetime Substance Use Among Mexican Children, International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction, September 2021, Springer Science + Business Media,
DOI: 10.1007/s11469-021-00634-8.
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Contributors

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