Examining Early Predictors of Substance Use in Elementary School: Psychosocial Characteristics and Quality of Student-Teacher Relationships

Substantial research exists on substance use in middle-school-aged early adolescents but not elementary-school-aged children. Using item response theory and multilevel modelling, child- and classroom-level risk factors for substance use are identified in a longitudinal elementary school sample. Results suggest low-cost policies and practices for substance use prevention in elementary school.