Frequent childhood geographic relocation : its impact on drug use initiation and the development of alcohol and other drug-related problems among adolescents and young adults

FRANÇAIS :
Les données de 3700 jeunes, de 18 à 35 ans, ayant participé à l'enquête canadienne de 1990-1991, Ontario Mental Health Supplement, ont permis d'examiner les relations entre le nombre de déménagements avant 16 ans et les expériences de drogue et de problèmes liés à la drogue. Il apparaît une relation significative entre les déménagements et, l'initiation précoce aux drogues illicites (marijuana, hallucinogènes, crack/cocaïne) et l'usage illicite de drogues prescrites. Pour les usagers de cannabis, le déménagement précipite les problèmes liés à cette drogue. La relation avec l'usage et les problèmes liés à l'alcool ne semble pas significative. Mais les garçons répondent plus aux problèmes du déménagement par la drogue. Les recherches futures devraient s'intéresser aux mécanismes de ces relations et aux facteurs modérateurs.
ENGLISH :
This study explored the relationship between number of geographic moves before the age of 16 and the timing of onset of drug use and progression to drug-related problems. Data were obtained from 3,700 young adults aged 18 to 35 years participating in the 1990-1991 Ontario Mental Health Supplement, a large random probability survey of the residents of the Province of Ontario, Canada. Results showed highly significant positive relationships between moving and early initiation of illicit drugs including marijuana, hallucinogens, crack/cocaine, and illicit use of prescribed drugs. Among marijuana users, moving was also associated with a hastening of time to marijuna-related problems. Relationships between moving and measures of alcohol use/problems were either weak or nonsignificant. Important sex differences were found, with statistically significant relationships between moving and early drug use initiation and progression occuring primarily among males. Future research is required to test for possible mediating mechanisms linking relocation with drug use as well as moderating influences. (From author'abstract)