HIGH-SCHOOL PUPILS ATTITUDE AND EXPERIENCE WITH DRUGS IN HOLON, ISRAEL

Five hundred and eight high school pupils filled out questionnaires concerning their attitudes and experience in the use of drugs: 3.15% had used drugs at least once. The beginning age was 14.36 +/- 1.55. Boys consumed more than girls (68.75 vs 31.25%). Pupil's permissive attitudes were in significant correlation with the following: controversy with parents (p < .05); breaking rules (discipline and property) (p < .05); drug consumption (p < .001); and positive parents' and friends' attitude toward drugs (p < .003). According to the pupils, the three main motives for beginning to take drugs were curiosity, peer influence, and existence of personal difficulties and/or seeking pleasure. The pupils' knowledge in the topic of drugs came from TV (92.5%), newspapers and periodicals (77.5%), and school (75%).