Kirke, Deirdre M (2004) Chain reactions in adolescents' cigarette, alcohol and drug use: similarity through peer influence or the patterning of ties in peer networks? Social Networks, 26, (1), pp. 3-28. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.socnet.2003.12.001.
Similarity in substance use among adolescents and their peers is usually attributed to peer influence or, occasionally, to either peer influence or selection. This paper suggests that similarity is due to both peer influence and selection. For some adolescents, peer influence outside the chain occurs first and selection follows; for others, selection occurs first and peer influence within the chain follows. Whichever occurs first, all adolescents are selected and nearly all are influenced. Peer networks contribute to similarity by providing a pattern of peer ties in which peer influence can flourish. Chain reactions result from the pattern and peer influence.
VA Geographic area > Europe > Ireland
L Social psychology and related concepts > Interpersonal interaction and group dynamics > Peer relations / social networks > Level of substance use among peers
B Substances > Alcohol
A Substance use and dependence > Substance related societal (social) problems > Underage drinking
L Social psychology and related concepts > Interpersonal interaction and group dynamics > Peer relations / social networks > Peer / social pressure
G Health and disease > Substance use disorder (addiction) > Alcohol use disorder
J Health care, prevention, harm reduction and treatment > Risk and protective factors
A Substance use and dependence > Prevalence > Substance use behaviour
B Substances > Tobacco (cigarette smoking)
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