High School Pupils' Attitude and Experience with Drugs in Holon, Israel

Abstract

Five hundred and eight high school pupils filled out questionnaires concerning their attitudes and experience in the use of drugs: 3.15% had used drugs at least once. The beginning age was 14.36 ± 1.55. Boys consumed more than girls (68.75 vs 31.25%). Pupil's permissive attitudes were in significant correlation with the following: controversy with parents (p <. 05); breaking rules (discipline and property) (p <. 05); drug consumption (p <. 001); and positive parents' and friends' attitude toward drugs (p <. 003). According to the pupils, the three main motives for beginning to take drugs were curiosity, peer influence, and existence of personal difficulties and/or seeking pleasure. The pupils' knowledge in the topic of drugs came from TV (92.5%), newspapers and periodicals (77.5%), and school (75%)