Title
Prevalence and correlate of problem behaviors among adolescents in Hong Kong
Document Type
Journal article
Source Publication
Asia-Pacific Journal of Public Health
Publication Date
2010
Volume
22
Issue
3
First Page
354
Last Page
364
Publisher
Sage Publications, Inc.
Keywords
smoking, adolescent, problem behaviors, substance abuse, disciplinary problem
Abstract
The aims of this study were to examine the frequency and correlates of problem behaviors among Hong Kong adolescents. It is a cross-sectional survey targeting secondary forms 1 to 3 (equivalent to grades 7-9 in the United States) students (N = 1029). A self-administered questionnaire was used as the measurement tool. The study found that there are intercorrelations of problem behaviors in adolescence, such as tobacco use, alcohol use, drug abuse, and having connections with triad society. Given the intercorrelations among problem behaviors, identification of a single type of problem behavior in adolescents can help discover the likelihood of the occurrence of other problem behaviors. It can facilitate identification and intervention at an early stage. The results provide some insights for the concerned authorities to develop a syndrome approach addressing problem behaviors.
DOI
10.1177/1010539510361763
Print ISSN
10105395
E-ISSN
19412479
Publisher Statement
Copyright © 2010 APJPH
Access to external full text or publisher's version may require subscription.
Full-text Version
Publisher’s Version
Language
English
Recommended Citation
Lau, M., & Kan, M.-y. (2010). Prevalence and correlate of problem behaviors among adolescents in Hong Kong. Asia-Pacific Journal of Public Health, 22(3), 354-364. doi: 10.1177/1010539510361763