Colorado County - Columbus Isd - 1996 Texas School Survey Of Drug And Alcohol Use
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TEXAS SCHOOL SURVEY OF DRUG AND ALCOHOL USE COLUMBUS ISD SECONDARY EXECUTIVE SUMMARY OVERVIEW In the Spring of 1996, the Texas Commission on Alcohol and Drug Abuse, in conjunction with the Public Policy Research Institute at Texas A&M University, administered a survey to students in grades 7 through 12 in the Columbus Independent School District (CISD). A total of 602 students completed the questionnaire, which asked about students' experiences with alcohol and drugs. Of that number, 41 surveys were excluded from analysis because students did not indicate their grade or age, or because they were identified as exaggerators (i.e., claimed to have used a non-existent drug or reported overly excessive drug use). The final number of surveys included in the overall district analysis was 561.1 Students' responses to the questionnaire indicate that: •
Fifty-nine percent of Columbus ISD students reported using tobacco at least once during their lifetimes (Fig. 1), and 35* percent said they had used tobacco during the past month (Fig. 2).2
•
Eleven percent of Columbus ISD students said they smoke cigarettes on a daily basis, while 3 percent reported using a smokeless tobacco product on a daily basis.
•
Eighty-three* percent of Columbus ISD students said they had used alcohol at least once during their lifetimes (Fig. 1), and 53* percent reported using alcohol during the past month (Fig. 2).
•
Twenty-eight* percent of Columbus ISD 9th through 12th grade students said they had driven a car at least once during the past year after having "a good bit to drink" (Fig. 11).
1
The percentages referred to in the executive summary were taken from the tables found in "Part I: District Survey Results." Due to the differences in rounding procedures, there may be slight discrepancies between the percentages referred to in the tables and those reflected in the executive summary and in the corresponding figures. Figures referenced throughout this report are included in "Part III: Executive Summary." 2
Data in this report marked with an asterisk are estimated to be statistically significant at the .01 level from the comparable data for the state as a whole. This means that in only one of a hundred samples would a difference this large have occurred when there was no difference between the district and state data. Differences in very small districts will seldom be statistically significant due to the small number of cases. Differences that are not marked may be important, but should be treated with more caution than those that are statistically significant.
1
•
Lifetime use of inhalants was reported by 14* percent of Columbus ISD students (Fig. 1), while past-month inhalant use was reported by 4 percent (Fig. 2).
•
Twenty-four* percent of Columbus ISD students reported using marijuana at least once during their lifetimes (Fig. 1), and 11* percent said they had used marijuana during the past month (Fig. 2).
•
Columbus ISD students are most likely to turn to friends for help with a drug or alcohol problem (76 percent) and least likely to consult another adult in school, such as a teacher or nurse (24* percent) (Fig. 17).
Tobacco Over the last two years, the general use of tobacco (including cigarettes and smokeless products) among students statewide has increased slightly.3 Overall, the general use of tobacco products among Columbus ISD students, especially with regard to the smokeless variety, is somewhat higher than that reported by their counterparts statewide. Fifty-nine percent of Columbus students reported general tobacco use at least once during their lifetimes (55 percent statewide) (Fig. 1). Lifetime tobacco use was reported by 57 percent of district 7th and 8th graders, compared to 47 percent of 7th and 8th graders statewide. Sixty-one percent of CISD 9th through 12th graders reported lifetime use of a tobacco product (60 percent statewide). Thirty-five* percent of Columbus ISD students said they had used a tobacco product during the past month, in contrast to the 26 percent reported by students statewide (Fig. 2). Past-month general tobacco use was reported by 23 percent of CISD 7th and 8th grade students (20 percent statewide). Forty-two* percent of district 9th through 12th grade students reported using a tobacco product during the past month, a rate higher than that reported by 9th through 12th grade students statewide (30 percent). Fifty-six percent of Columbus students reported smoking cigarettes at least once during their lifetimes (53 percent statewide), 32* percent said they had smoked cigarettes during the past month (25 percent statewide), and 11 percent reported smoking cigarettes on a daily basis (8 percent statewide). Twenty-five percent of CISD students said most or all of their close friends smoke cigarettes (21 percent statewide). Lifetime use of smokeless tobacco products was reported by 25* percent of CISD students (16 percent statewide), while 11* percent said they had used a smokeless tobacco product during the 3
Statewide data is collected every other year. The statewide data used for comparison purposes in the district report and executive summary is taken from the results of the survey administered in the Spring of 1996.
2
past month (5 percent statewide), rates higher than those reported by students statewide. Three percent of CISD students reported using a smokeless tobacco product on a daily basis (1 percent statewide), and 8 percent said most or all of their close friends use smokeless tobacco (5 percent statewide). Alcohol Alcohol is the most widely used substance among students statewide and in the Columbus ISD. Alcohol use among secondary students statewide has decreased slightly from that reported two years ago. Overall, Columbus ISD students are drinking alcohol at rates higher than those reported by their peers statewide. Eighty-three* percent of Columbus students reported consuming alcohol at least once during their lifetimes, compared to 74 percent of students statewide (Fig. 1). Lifetime alcohol use was reported by 72* percent of CISD 7th and 8th graders (63 percent statewide) and 89* percent of district 9th through 12th graders (80 percent statewide), rates higher than those reported by their counterparts statewide (Fig. 3). Fifty-three* percent of Columbus ISD students said they had consumed alcohol during the past month, a rate higher than that reported by their counterparts statewide (38 percent) (Fig. 2). Past-month alcohol use was reported by 35 percent of district 7th and 8th grade students (28 percent statewide). Sixty-three* percent of CISD 9th through 12th grade students reported drinking alcohol during the past month, a rate considerably higher than that reported by 9th through 12th grade students statewide (43 percent) (Fig. 4). The alcoholic beverages most often consumed by Columbus students are beer (72* percent/56 percent statewide) and wine coolers (71* percent/58 percent statewide), rates higher than those reported by students statewide. Fifty* percent of CISD students said they drink beer on a weekly or monthly basis (33 percent statewide), and 40* percent said they drink wine coolers weekly or monthly (31 percent statewide). "Binge drinking" is the consumption of five or more beers, wine coolers, servings of wine, or drinks with liquor at one time. CISD students are "binge drinking" beer and, to a lesser extent, wine coolers at rates higher than those reported by their counterparts statewide. Fifty-three* percent of Columbus ISD students reported "binge drinking" beer at least once during their lifetimes (37 percent statewide), while 29* percent said they usually drink five or more beers at a time on average when they drink (19 percent statewide). Lifetime "binge drinking" of wine coolers was reported by 48* percent of CISD students (40 percent statewide), and 21 percent said they usually drink five or more wine coolers at a time on average when they drink (18 percent statewide). Thirteen* percent of Columbus students reported attending at least one class during the past school year while "drunk" (9 percent statewide). Attending class while intoxicated was reported
3
by 16* percent of district 9th through 12th grade students, a rate higher than that reported by 9th through 12th grade students statewide (10 percent) (Fig. 9). Twenty-eight* percent of CISD 9th through 12th grade students said that they had driven a car after having "a good bit to drink" at least once during the past year, a rate higher than that reported by 9th through 12th grade students statewide (15 percent). Driving while intoxicated four or more times during the past year was reported by 11* percent of district 9th through 12th graders, nearly three times the rate reported by their peers statewide (4 percent) (Fig. 11). Students were asked about the availability of alcohol, its use among friends, and its use at parties. Eighty-one* percent of Columbus ISD students said beer, wine, wine coolers, or liquor were somewhat easy or very easy to obtain (75 percent statewide), 52* percent reported most or all of their close friends drink alcohol (37 percent statewide), and 50* percent responded "from friends" when asked where they obtained alcohol most of the time or always (39 percent statewide), rates higher than those reported by students statewide. "Difficulties of any kind" with friends because of one's own drinking was reported by 14* percent of CISD students (9 percent statewide). Fifty-two* percent of Columbus students said alcohol was used at most or all of the parties they attended in the past school year, compared to 37 percent of students statewide. Alcohol use at most or all parties was reported by 71* percent of CISD 9th through 12th graders, a rate considerably higher than that reported by 9th through 12th grade students statewide (49 percent) (Fig. 12). Fifty-three* percent of district students responded "at parties" when asked where they obtain alcohol most of the time or always, a rate higher than that reported by students statewide (43 percent). Twenty percent of CISD students said they get alcohol "from the store" most of the time or always (17 percent statewide). Students were asked how many days during the school year they were absent from class due to an illness or for some other reason, and how many days they had gotten into trouble because of conduct or attitude problems. Fewer CISD students who had not been absent since the Fall reported having used alcohol during the past month (37 percent/25 percent statewide) than did district students who said they had missed four or more days of school (59 percent/44 percent statewide). Seventy-one percent of the district students who had experienced difficulties with school officials on four or more days reported using alcohol during the past 30 days (62 percent statewide). By contrast, only 43 percent of district students who had not experienced difficulties with school officials because of conduct problems had used alcohol within the past 30 days (25 percent statewide). Parental attitudes can be a major factor in whether or not a student uses alcohol or drugs. When asked how their parents feel about kids their age drinking beer, 63* percent of Columbus students said their parents strongly or mildly disapprove, a rate lower than that reported by students statewide (76 percent). Twenty* percent of district students said their parents neither approve nor disapprove of kids their age drinking beer (10 percent statewide), and 8 percent said they "don't know" how their parents feel (9 percent statewide) (Fig. 15).
4
Inhalants4 In general, inhalants are common, licit substances (paints, thinners, correction fluid, glue, etc.) which, when sniffed, huffed, or inhaled, produce an intoxicating effect. Over the last two years, use of inhalants among students statewide has stayed about the same. Overall, Columbus ISD students are using inhalants at rates similar to those reported by their counterparts statewide. Fourteen* percent of Columbus students reported using inhalants at least once during their lifetimes (20 percent statewide) (Fig. 1). Lifetime inhalant use was reported by 15* percent of district 7th and 8th graders, a rate lower than that reported by 7th and 8th graders statewide (23 percent). Lifetime inhalant use was reported by 14 percent of CISD 9th through 12th graders (18 percent statewide) (Figs. 5a and 5b). Four percent of Columbus ISD students said they had used inhalants during the past month (5 percent statewide) (Fig. 2). Past-month inhalant use was reported by 5 percent of district 7th and 8th grade students (8 percent statewide) and 3 percent of CISD 9th through 12th grade students (3 percent statewide) (Figs. 6a and 6b). Two percent of CISD students reported most or all of their close friends use inhalants (3 percent statewide), and 3 percent said they had attended at least one class during the past school year while "high" on inhalants (4 percent statewide). Nine percent of CISD students said they had used two or more different kinds of inhalant substances during their lifetimes (12 percent statewide). The inhalant substances most frequently used by Columbus students were correction fluid/Liquid Paper (7 percent/9 percent statewide) and those in the "other inhalants" category (7 percent/8 percent statewide). Five percent of district students reported inhaling gasoline (5 percent statewide), 5 percent said they had inhaled liquid/spray paint (7 percent statewide), 4 percent said they had inhaled glue (5 percent statewide), 4 percent said they had inhaled paint thinner (5 percent statewide), and 3 percent reported inhaling substances in the "other sprays" category (4 percent statewide) at least once during their lifetimes (Figs. 7a and 7b). Illicit Drugs Illicit drugs are defined as controlled substances and include marijuana, cocaine (powdered form and crack), uppers (stimulants), downers (narcotics), hallucinogens, and ecstasy. Over the last two years, the use of illicit drugs among secondary students statewide has increased. The use of marijuana, the most frequently used illicit substance, has also increased among secondary students statewide over the last two years.
4
Lifetime and current inhalant use figures have been adjusted to reflect reported use of both specific inhalants and inhalant use generally. Some students responded positive to specific use without responding positive to generic use. Some students responded positive to generic use but not specific inhalants.
5
In the Columbus ISD, 27* percent of students reported use of illicit drugs at least once during their lifetimes (34 percent statewide), while 18* percent of CISD students said they had used one or more illicit substances three or more times (25 percent statewide), rates lower than those reported by students statewide. Statewide, students who said they had used illicit drugs reported using them an average of 2.2 times in the past 30 days and 6.4 times during their lives. Columbus students reported average usage rates of 1.5 times in the past month and 4.6 times during their lifetimes. Twenty-four* percent of CISD students reported using marijuana at least once in their lifetimes, a rate lower than that reported by their peers statewide (31 percent) (Fig. 1). Lifetime marijuana use was reported by 12* percent of Columbus 7th and 8th grade students, nearly half the rate reported by 7th and 8th grade students statewide (21 percent). Lifetime marijuana use was reported by 30 percent of district 9th through 12th grade students (37 percent statewide) (Figs. 5a and 5b). Past-month marijuana use was reported by 11* percent of Columbus ISD students (16 percent statewide) (Fig. 2). Past-month marijuana use was reported by 6* percent of district 7th and 8th graders, a rate lower than that reported by 7th and 8th graders statewide (11 percent). Pastmonth marijuana use was reported by 14 percent of CISD 9th through 12th graders (19 percent statewide) (Figs. 6a and 6b). Eight* percent of CISD students reported attending at least one class in the past year while "stoned" on marijuana (13 percent statewide). Attending class while "stoned" was reported by 8* percent of district 9th through 12th graders, a rate lower than that reported by 9th through 12th graders statewide (14 percent) (Fig. 10). Driving under the influence of drugs at least once during the past year was reported by 13 percent of Columbus ISD 9th through 12th grade students (12 percent statewide). Forty-eight percent of CISD students said marijuana was somewhat or very easy to obtain (53 percent statewide), and 17 percent reported most or all of their close friends use marijuana (21 percent statewide). Seven percent of district students said they had gotten into "difficulties of any kind" with their friends because of their own drug use (6 percent statewide). Twenty-five percent of the Columbus ISD students said that marijuana and/or other drugs were used at most or all of the parties they attended during the school year (23 percent statewide). Marijuana and/or other drug use at most or all parties was reported by 10 percent of district 7th and 8th grade students (12 percent statewide) and 34 percent of CISD 9th through 12th grade students (29 percent statewide). Fewer Columbus ISD students who had not been absent since the Fall reported having used marijuana during the past month (5 percent/9 percent statewide) than did district students who said they had missed four or more days of school (13 percent/20 percent statewide). Five percent of district students who had not gotten into trouble with school officials reported using marijuana within the past 30 days (7 percent statewide). By contrast, 28 percent of district
6
students who had gotten into trouble with school officials on four or more days reported using marijuana during the past 30 days (38 percent statewide). When asked about parental attitudes toward marijuana use, Columbus students reported a disapproval rate of 84 percent (85 percent statewide). Seven percent of district students said they "don't know" how their parents feel about kids their age using marijuana (8 percent statewide), while 6 percent said their parents neither approve nor disapprove (4 percent statewide) (Fig. 15). Other illicit substances are used by a small number of Columbus ISD students. Uppers are the next most frequently used illicit substance among Columbus ISD students (7 percent/8 percent statewide). Five percent of CISD students said they had used hallucinogens (8 percent statewide), 4 percent reported using downers (6 percent statewide), 3* percent said they had used powdered cocaine (7 percent statewide), 3 percent said they had used steroids (2 percent statewide), 3* percent reported using ecstasy (5 percent statewide), and 1* percent reported using crack (3 percent statewide) at least once during their lifetimes (Fig. 1). CHARACTERISTICS ASSOCIATED WITH DRUG USE Statewide, female students were somewhat less likely to have used drugs than were male students. In the Columbus ISD, male students were somewhat more likely to have smoked marijuana or used hallucinogens than were district female students. There were no other significant differences by gender among CISD students with regard to the use of tobacco products, alcohol, inhalants, or other illicit substances. When asked where they would go for help with a drug or alcohol problem, the largest percentage of Columbus students said they would seek help from their friends (76 percent/74 percent statewide). Fifty-four percent of CISD students said they would seek help from an adult friend or relative (58 percent statewide), and 52 percent said they would turn to their parents (54 percent statewide). District students are least likely to seek help for a drug or alcohol problem from another adult in school, such as a teacher or nurse (24* percent/32 percent statewide) (Fig. 17). Since school began in the Fall, 5 percent of Columbus students reported seeking help for any problems connected with alcohol or drug use from someone other than family or friends (7 percent statewide). Eighty-four* percent of Columbus ISD students said they had gotten information about drugs and alcohol from a school source since classes began in the Fall, in contrast to the 75 percent reported by students statewide. "An assembly program" was reported by 64* percent of district students as a source for information about drugs and alcohol (44 percent statewide), while 61* percent reported getting this information from a "health class" (46 percent statewide), and 47* percent said "an invited school guest" was a source for information about drugs and alcohol (38 percent statewide), rates higher than those reported by their counterparts statewide.
7
The influence of drug education programs may be reflected in students' attitudes toward the use of specific substances. Eighty-eight percent of Columbus students believe that crack use is "very dangerous" (88 percent statewide), and 86 percent believe that powdered cocaine use is "very dangerous" (87 percent statewide). Seventy percent of CISD students believe that inhalant use is "very dangerous" (70 percent statewide), and 63 percent believe that marijuana use is "very dangerous" (60 percent statewide). By contrast, the perceived danger of alcohol and tobacco use is lower. Only 33* percent of CISD students feel that it is "very dangerous" to use alcohol (44 percent statewide), while 28* percent believe that tobacco use is "very dangerous" (39 percent statewide), rates lower than those reported by their peers statewide (Fig. 13).
8
Fifty-nine percent of Columbus ISD students reported using tobacco at least once during their lifetimes (Fig. 1), and 35* percent said they had used tobacco during the past month (Fig. 2).2
•
Eleven percent of Columbus ISD students said they smoke cigarettes on a daily basis, while 3 percent reported using a smokeless tobacco product on a daily basis.
•
Eighty-three* percent of Columbus ISD students said they had used alcohol at least once during their lifetimes (Fig. 1), and 53* percent reported using alcohol during the past month (Fig. 2).
•
Twenty-eight* percent of Columbus ISD 9th through 12th grade students said they had driven a car at least once during the past year after having "a good bit to drink" (Fig. 11).
1
The percentages referred to in the executive summary were taken from the tables found in "Part I: District Survey Results." Due to the differences in rounding procedures, there may be slight discrepancies between the percentages referred to in the tables and those reflected in the executive summary and in the corresponding figures. Figures referenced throughout this report are included in "Part III: Executive Summary." 2
Data in this report marked with an asterisk are estimated to be statistically significant at the .01 level from the comparable data for the state as a whole. This means that in only one of a hundred samples would a difference this large have occurred when there was no difference between the district and state data. Differences in very small districts will seldom be statistically significant due to the small number of cases. Differences that are not marked may be important, but should be treated with more caution than those that are statistically significant.
1
•
Lifetime use of inhalants was reported by 14* percent of Columbus ISD students (Fig. 1), while past-month inhalant use was reported by 4 percent (Fig. 2).
•
Twenty-four* percent of Columbus ISD students reported using marijuana at least once during their lifetimes (Fig. 1), and 11* percent said they had used marijuana during the past month (Fig. 2).
•
Columbus ISD students are most likely to turn to friends for help with a drug or alcohol problem (76 percent) and least likely to consult another adult in school, such as a teacher or nurse (24* percent) (Fig. 17).
Tobacco Over the last two years, the general use of tobacco (including cigarettes and smokeless products) among students statewide has increased slightly.3 Overall, the general use of tobacco products among Columbus ISD students, especially with regard to the smokeless variety, is somewhat higher than that reported by their counterparts statewide. Fifty-nine percent of Columbus students reported general tobacco use at least once during their lifetimes (55 percent statewide) (Fig. 1). Lifetime tobacco use was reported by 57 percent of district 7th and 8th graders, compared to 47 percent of 7th and 8th graders statewide. Sixty-one percent of CISD 9th through 12th graders reported lifetime use of a tobacco product (60 percent statewide). Thirty-five* percent of Columbus ISD students said they had used a tobacco product during the past month, in contrast to the 26 percent reported by students statewide (Fig. 2). Past-month general tobacco use was reported by 23 percent of CISD 7th and 8th grade students (20 percent statewide). Forty-two* percent of district 9th through 12th grade students reported using a tobacco product during the past month, a rate higher than that reported by 9th through 12th grade students statewide (30 percent). Fifty-six percent of Columbus students reported smoking cigarettes at least once during their lifetimes (53 percent statewide), 32* percent said they had smoked cigarettes during the past month (25 percent statewide), and 11 percent reported smoking cigarettes on a daily basis (8 percent statewide). Twenty-five percent of CISD students said most or all of their close friends smoke cigarettes (21 percent statewide). Lifetime use of smokeless tobacco products was reported by 25* percent of CISD students (16 percent statewide), while 11* percent said they had used a smokeless tobacco product during the 3
Statewide data is collected every other year. The statewide data used for comparison purposes in the district report and executive summary is taken from the results of the survey administered in the Spring of 1996.
2
past month (5 percent statewide), rates higher than those reported by students statewide. Three percent of CISD students reported using a smokeless tobacco product on a daily basis (1 percent statewide), and 8 percent said most or all of their close friends use smokeless tobacco (5 percent statewide). Alcohol Alcohol is the most widely used substance among students statewide and in the Columbus ISD. Alcohol use among secondary students statewide has decreased slightly from that reported two years ago. Overall, Columbus ISD students are drinking alcohol at rates higher than those reported by their peers statewide. Eighty-three* percent of Columbus students reported consuming alcohol at least once during their lifetimes, compared to 74 percent of students statewide (Fig. 1). Lifetime alcohol use was reported by 72* percent of CISD 7th and 8th graders (63 percent statewide) and 89* percent of district 9th through 12th graders (80 percent statewide), rates higher than those reported by their counterparts statewide (Fig. 3). Fifty-three* percent of Columbus ISD students said they had consumed alcohol during the past month, a rate higher than that reported by their counterparts statewide (38 percent) (Fig. 2). Past-month alcohol use was reported by 35 percent of district 7th and 8th grade students (28 percent statewide). Sixty-three* percent of CISD 9th through 12th grade students reported drinking alcohol during the past month, a rate considerably higher than that reported by 9th through 12th grade students statewide (43 percent) (Fig. 4). The alcoholic beverages most often consumed by Columbus students are beer (72* percent/56 percent statewide) and wine coolers (71* percent/58 percent statewide), rates higher than those reported by students statewide. Fifty* percent of CISD students said they drink beer on a weekly or monthly basis (33 percent statewide), and 40* percent said they drink wine coolers weekly or monthly (31 percent statewide). "Binge drinking" is the consumption of five or more beers, wine coolers, servings of wine, or drinks with liquor at one time. CISD students are "binge drinking" beer and, to a lesser extent, wine coolers at rates higher than those reported by their counterparts statewide. Fifty-three* percent of Columbus ISD students reported "binge drinking" beer at least once during their lifetimes (37 percent statewide), while 29* percent said they usually drink five or more beers at a time on average when they drink (19 percent statewide). Lifetime "binge drinking" of wine coolers was reported by 48* percent of CISD students (40 percent statewide), and 21 percent said they usually drink five or more wine coolers at a time on average when they drink (18 percent statewide). Thirteen* percent of Columbus students reported attending at least one class during the past school year while "drunk" (9 percent statewide). Attending class while intoxicated was reported
3
by 16* percent of district 9th through 12th grade students, a rate higher than that reported by 9th through 12th grade students statewide (10 percent) (Fig. 9). Twenty-eight* percent of CISD 9th through 12th grade students said that they had driven a car after having "a good bit to drink" at least once during the past year, a rate higher than that reported by 9th through 12th grade students statewide (15 percent). Driving while intoxicated four or more times during the past year was reported by 11* percent of district 9th through 12th graders, nearly three times the rate reported by their peers statewide (4 percent) (Fig. 11). Students were asked about the availability of alcohol, its use among friends, and its use at parties. Eighty-one* percent of Columbus ISD students said beer, wine, wine coolers, or liquor were somewhat easy or very easy to obtain (75 percent statewide), 52* percent reported most or all of their close friends drink alcohol (37 percent statewide), and 50* percent responded "from friends" when asked where they obtained alcohol most of the time or always (39 percent statewide), rates higher than those reported by students statewide. "Difficulties of any kind" with friends because of one's own drinking was reported by 14* percent of CISD students (9 percent statewide). Fifty-two* percent of Columbus students said alcohol was used at most or all of the parties they attended in the past school year, compared to 37 percent of students statewide. Alcohol use at most or all parties was reported by 71* percent of CISD 9th through 12th graders, a rate considerably higher than that reported by 9th through 12th grade students statewide (49 percent) (Fig. 12). Fifty-three* percent of district students responded "at parties" when asked where they obtain alcohol most of the time or always, a rate higher than that reported by students statewide (43 percent). Twenty percent of CISD students said they get alcohol "from the store" most of the time or always (17 percent statewide). Students were asked how many days during the school year they were absent from class due to an illness or for some other reason, and how many days they had gotten into trouble because of conduct or attitude problems. Fewer CISD students who had not been absent since the Fall reported having used alcohol during the past month (37 percent/25 percent statewide) than did district students who said they had missed four or more days of school (59 percent/44 percent statewide). Seventy-one percent of the district students who had experienced difficulties with school officials on four or more days reported using alcohol during the past 30 days (62 percent statewide). By contrast, only 43 percent of district students who had not experienced difficulties with school officials because of conduct problems had used alcohol within the past 30 days (25 percent statewide). Parental attitudes can be a major factor in whether or not a student uses alcohol or drugs. When asked how their parents feel about kids their age drinking beer, 63* percent of Columbus students said their parents strongly or mildly disapprove, a rate lower than that reported by students statewide (76 percent). Twenty* percent of district students said their parents neither approve nor disapprove of kids their age drinking beer (10 percent statewide), and 8 percent said they "don't know" how their parents feel (9 percent statewide) (Fig. 15).
4
Inhalants4 In general, inhalants are common, licit substances (paints, thinners, correction fluid, glue, etc.) which, when sniffed, huffed, or inhaled, produce an intoxicating effect. Over the last two years, use of inhalants among students statewide has stayed about the same. Overall, Columbus ISD students are using inhalants at rates similar to those reported by their counterparts statewide. Fourteen* percent of Columbus students reported using inhalants at least once during their lifetimes (20 percent statewide) (Fig. 1). Lifetime inhalant use was reported by 15* percent of district 7th and 8th graders, a rate lower than that reported by 7th and 8th graders statewide (23 percent). Lifetime inhalant use was reported by 14 percent of CISD 9th through 12th graders (18 percent statewide) (Figs. 5a and 5b). Four percent of Columbus ISD students said they had used inhalants during the past month (5 percent statewide) (Fig. 2). Past-month inhalant use was reported by 5 percent of district 7th and 8th grade students (8 percent statewide) and 3 percent of CISD 9th through 12th grade students (3 percent statewide) (Figs. 6a and 6b). Two percent of CISD students reported most or all of their close friends use inhalants (3 percent statewide), and 3 percent said they had attended at least one class during the past school year while "high" on inhalants (4 percent statewide). Nine percent of CISD students said they had used two or more different kinds of inhalant substances during their lifetimes (12 percent statewide). The inhalant substances most frequently used by Columbus students were correction fluid/Liquid Paper (7 percent/9 percent statewide) and those in the "other inhalants" category (7 percent/8 percent statewide). Five percent of district students reported inhaling gasoline (5 percent statewide), 5 percent said they had inhaled liquid/spray paint (7 percent statewide), 4 percent said they had inhaled glue (5 percent statewide), 4 percent said they had inhaled paint thinner (5 percent statewide), and 3 percent reported inhaling substances in the "other sprays" category (4 percent statewide) at least once during their lifetimes (Figs. 7a and 7b). Illicit Drugs Illicit drugs are defined as controlled substances and include marijuana, cocaine (powdered form and crack), uppers (stimulants), downers (narcotics), hallucinogens, and ecstasy. Over the last two years, the use of illicit drugs among secondary students statewide has increased. The use of marijuana, the most frequently used illicit substance, has also increased among secondary students statewide over the last two years.
4
Lifetime and current inhalant use figures have been adjusted to reflect reported use of both specific inhalants and inhalant use generally. Some students responded positive to specific use without responding positive to generic use. Some students responded positive to generic use but not specific inhalants.
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In the Columbus ISD, 27* percent of students reported use of illicit drugs at least once during their lifetimes (34 percent statewide), while 18* percent of CISD students said they had used one or more illicit substances three or more times (25 percent statewide), rates lower than those reported by students statewide. Statewide, students who said they had used illicit drugs reported using them an average of 2.2 times in the past 30 days and 6.4 times during their lives. Columbus students reported average usage rates of 1.5 times in the past month and 4.6 times during their lifetimes. Twenty-four* percent of CISD students reported using marijuana at least once in their lifetimes, a rate lower than that reported by their peers statewide (31 percent) (Fig. 1). Lifetime marijuana use was reported by 12* percent of Columbus 7th and 8th grade students, nearly half the rate reported by 7th and 8th grade students statewide (21 percent). Lifetime marijuana use was reported by 30 percent of district 9th through 12th grade students (37 percent statewide) (Figs. 5a and 5b). Past-month marijuana use was reported by 11* percent of Columbus ISD students (16 percent statewide) (Fig. 2). Past-month marijuana use was reported by 6* percent of district 7th and 8th graders, a rate lower than that reported by 7th and 8th graders statewide (11 percent). Pastmonth marijuana use was reported by 14 percent of CISD 9th through 12th graders (19 percent statewide) (Figs. 6a and 6b). Eight* percent of CISD students reported attending at least one class in the past year while "stoned" on marijuana (13 percent statewide). Attending class while "stoned" was reported by 8* percent of district 9th through 12th graders, a rate lower than that reported by 9th through 12th graders statewide (14 percent) (Fig. 10). Driving under the influence of drugs at least once during the past year was reported by 13 percent of Columbus ISD 9th through 12th grade students (12 percent statewide). Forty-eight percent of CISD students said marijuana was somewhat or very easy to obtain (53 percent statewide), and 17 percent reported most or all of their close friends use marijuana (21 percent statewide). Seven percent of district students said they had gotten into "difficulties of any kind" with their friends because of their own drug use (6 percent statewide). Twenty-five percent of the Columbus ISD students said that marijuana and/or other drugs were used at most or all of the parties they attended during the school year (23 percent statewide). Marijuana and/or other drug use at most or all parties was reported by 10 percent of district 7th and 8th grade students (12 percent statewide) and 34 percent of CISD 9th through 12th grade students (29 percent statewide). Fewer Columbus ISD students who had not been absent since the Fall reported having used marijuana during the past month (5 percent/9 percent statewide) than did district students who said they had missed four or more days of school (13 percent/20 percent statewide). Five percent of district students who had not gotten into trouble with school officials reported using marijuana within the past 30 days (7 percent statewide). By contrast, 28 percent of district
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students who had gotten into trouble with school officials on four or more days reported using marijuana during the past 30 days (38 percent statewide). When asked about parental attitudes toward marijuana use, Columbus students reported a disapproval rate of 84 percent (85 percent statewide). Seven percent of district students said they "don't know" how their parents feel about kids their age using marijuana (8 percent statewide), while 6 percent said their parents neither approve nor disapprove (4 percent statewide) (Fig. 15). Other illicit substances are used by a small number of Columbus ISD students. Uppers are the next most frequently used illicit substance among Columbus ISD students (7 percent/8 percent statewide). Five percent of CISD students said they had used hallucinogens (8 percent statewide), 4 percent reported using downers (6 percent statewide), 3* percent said they had used powdered cocaine (7 percent statewide), 3 percent said they had used steroids (2 percent statewide), 3* percent reported using ecstasy (5 percent statewide), and 1* percent reported using crack (3 percent statewide) at least once during their lifetimes (Fig. 1). CHARACTERISTICS ASSOCIATED WITH DRUG USE Statewide, female students were somewhat less likely to have used drugs than were male students. In the Columbus ISD, male students were somewhat more likely to have smoked marijuana or used hallucinogens than were district female students. There were no other significant differences by gender among CISD students with regard to the use of tobacco products, alcohol, inhalants, or other illicit substances. When asked where they would go for help with a drug or alcohol problem, the largest percentage of Columbus students said they would seek help from their friends (76 percent/74 percent statewide). Fifty-four percent of CISD students said they would seek help from an adult friend or relative (58 percent statewide), and 52 percent said they would turn to their parents (54 percent statewide). District students are least likely to seek help for a drug or alcohol problem from another adult in school, such as a teacher or nurse (24* percent/32 percent statewide) (Fig. 17). Since school began in the Fall, 5 percent of Columbus students reported seeking help for any problems connected with alcohol or drug use from someone other than family or friends (7 percent statewide). Eighty-four* percent of Columbus ISD students said they had gotten information about drugs and alcohol from a school source since classes began in the Fall, in contrast to the 75 percent reported by students statewide. "An assembly program" was reported by 64* percent of district students as a source for information about drugs and alcohol (44 percent statewide), while 61* percent reported getting this information from a "health class" (46 percent statewide), and 47* percent said "an invited school guest" was a source for information about drugs and alcohol (38 percent statewide), rates higher than those reported by their counterparts statewide.
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The influence of drug education programs may be reflected in students' attitudes toward the use of specific substances. Eighty-eight percent of Columbus students believe that crack use is "very dangerous" (88 percent statewide), and 86 percent believe that powdered cocaine use is "very dangerous" (87 percent statewide). Seventy percent of CISD students believe that inhalant use is "very dangerous" (70 percent statewide), and 63 percent believe that marijuana use is "very dangerous" (60 percent statewide). By contrast, the perceived danger of alcohol and tobacco use is lower. Only 33* percent of CISD students feel that it is "very dangerous" to use alcohol (44 percent statewide), while 28* percent believe that tobacco use is "very dangerous" (39 percent statewide), rates lower than those reported by their peers statewide (Fig. 13).
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