The Effects of Peer Group Network Properties on Drug Use Among Homeless Youth

Abstract

The authors examine how the properties of peer networks affect amphetamine, cocaine, and injection drug use over 3 months among newly homeless adolescents, aged 12 to 20 in Los Angeles (n = 217; 83% retention at 3 months) and Melbourne (n = 119; 72% retention at 3 months). Several hypotheses regarding the effects of social network properties on the peer influence process are developed. Multivariate logistic regression analyses show that higher concentrations of homeless peers in networks at recruitment were associated with increased likelihood of amphetamine and cocaine use at 3-month follow-up. Higher concentrations of injecting peers were associated with increased risk of injection drug use 3 months later. Change in network structure over time toward increased concentrations of homeless peers was associated with increased risk of cocaine use and injecting. Higher density networks at baseline were positively associated with increased likelihood of cocaine and amphetamine use at 3 months.

Social Support Networks and the Mental Health of Runaway and Homeless Youth

“…Indeed, in the one longitudinal study to date, researchers found that homeless youth's networks tend to deteriorate and get smaller the longer that they are homeless (Falci et al 2011). Some RHY, however, do manage to maintain connections to old family and friends and may even develop new network ties "on the streets," and these social ties are often critical supports for youth struggling with homelessness (Ennett et al 1999;Falci et al 2011;Rice et al 2005Rice et al , 2007Rice et al , 2008Tyler and Melander 2011;Unger et al 1998). In short, when it comes to the structure of RHY's personal networks, they appear to be smaller, more dynamic, and possibly more varied in composition than the personal support networks of similarly aged youth in the general population.…”

Social network characteristics and risky sexual and drug related behaviors among homeless young adults

“…At present, however, there has been limited empirical study of the social network characteristics (e.g., conflict, stability, network norms) of homeless young adults and how these may positively or negatively influence their risky sexual and substance use related behaviors (for exceptions, see [Ennett et al, 1999a;Rice et al, 2005;Rice et al, 2007). Ennett and colleagues (1999a) found that homeless youth without a network were at greater risk for trading sex, having multiple sex partners, and using illicit drugs than those youth with a network.…”

“…Those with a sex partner present were also less likely to have worn a condom during their most recent sexual experience. Rice and colleagues (2005) found that having a greater density of drug using peers within a social network increased the likelihood that homeless youth themselves would use drugs (Rice et al, 2005). Finally Rice et al (2007) found that having a greater number of peers in one's network that engaged in risky behaviors increased the likelihood that homeless youth would participate in HIV risk behaviors across time.…”

Cell Phone Use among Homeless Youth: Potential for New Health Interventions and Research

“…1 Relative to housed youth, these youth are at increased risk for a myriad of health and behavioral health problems, including substance abuse, sexually transmitted diseases, poor mental health outcomes, violence, and victimization. [2][3][4][5] Recent work among homeless adults has suggested that cell phone technology may present unique opportunities for working with transient populations. 6 As cell phones offer connections to others without the physical constraints of permanent dwellings, new communication patterns are feasible for homeless people, including access to social support, case management, and health professionals, which could in turn lead to improved health and behavioral health outcomes.…”