| This research surveyed elementary school [ES] (8 to 11 years) students (N = 413) of both genders (males, n = 17 females, n = 342), and middle school [MS] (11 to 15 years) students (N = 362) of both genders (males, = 133; females, n = 129) from three distinct regions of North Carolina. A reliable assessment tool for early screening and detection of tobacco and other drug use for both age groups was developed to determine an individual Total Resiliency Score (TRS). Initial MANOVA showed significant group differences for age and ethnicity; however, only ethnicity was significant for tobacco use intention within six months when between subjects effects were analyzed [F (5) = 1.75, p = .0001*] (*significance at .017).; Perceived smoking risk was negatively and highly associated with intentions to use tobacco among MS students (r = -.276**, p = .000), but not among ES students (r = -.160, p = .220).; Substance use was identified by both groups [ES/MS] for Tobacco---4.7%/13.5%; by only MS*: Alcohol*---20.6%; Marijuana*---4.8%. Significant correlations were found or perceived risk of smoking with MS intentions to use (r = -.276**, p = .000) [not with ES], perceived marijuana risks with tobacco intentions [ES & MS] (r = .127*, p = .010): (r = -.116*, p = .028)], ES smoking risk perceptions with tobacco use (r = -.352**, p = .000) [not with MS]; MS alcohol and marijuana use risk perceptions with tobacco use (r = -.205**, p = .000); (r = -.168*, p = .001) [not with ES] were found.; The specific implications of these findings focus on both educational and health policy reforms. Significant differences emerged among ethnic groups in both resiliency values, and intent to use tobacco. Significant negative correlations between children's perception of risk associated with smoking and other substance use at both the ES and MS levels suggests needed changes in substance abuse prevention curricula. Specifically, early intervention and anticipatory health prevention measures by health care providers are needed to deflect the social and environmental influences that predispose children to tobacco use. |
