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Attitudes towards the consumption of substances. Differences between high school and university students in Ecuador

Abstract:

Objectives: To identify the differences in attitudes toward the consumption of substances according to the level of schooling among college and university students in Ambato, Ecuador, and inter-gender differences by groups. Method: Descriptive, comparative, incidence and crosssectional study among school students and university students using the Psychoactive Substances Self-reporting questionnaire (AICA). Sample: 711 participants (50.5% male), high school students (70.6%) and university students (29.4%) from Ambato city took part. Results: High school (84.7%) and university students (85.2%) show attitudes of rejection with regard to substance use. Males have more favorable attitudes towards alcohol consumption than women whereas women are more aware of the potential harms and risks; although overall there are no differences by gender. University students admire non-drinkers less and accept alcohol consumption more than high school students. Conclusion: The transition from the high-school context is a determining factor in favorable attitudinal changes, especially alcohol consumption and the illusion of a maturity bias.