Area Specific Self‐Esteem Scales and Substance Use among Elementary and Middle School Children

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Abstract
The relationship between self‐esteem and the use and expected use of legal and illegal drugs was examined. Students in grades four‐nine (n = 2,032) representing 16 schools from Arkansas completed an anonymous questionnaire concerning self‐esteem and drug use. Results indicated statistically significant differences both for home self‐esteem and school self‐esteem on 18 or 19 measures of use and expected use. Results for peer self‐esteem showed no differences for any of 19 measures. Results suggest including area specific self‐esteem enhancement as a potentially important part of comprehensive drug education programs. Findings also highlight the role parents and teachers may play by promoting self‐esteem at home and school.