Volatile Substance Misuse Among Youth in Israel: Results of a National School Survey

Abstract

Volatile substance misuse (VSM) among Israeli youth has been identified as widespread and growing. Using data from the National School Survey of 12–18 year olds (N = 7,166), this study describes VSM prevalence among Jews and Arabs, examining relationships between past-month VSM and sociodemographic, behavioral, psychological, and interpersonal characteristics. Past-month VSM, reported by 7.5% of respondents, was significantly associated with other risky behaviors including past-month illicit drug use (Adjusted odds ratios (AOR) = 5.41, 95% CI: 3.5–8.1), Internet gambling (AOR = 2.12, 95% CI: 1.5–3.1), smoking, binge drinking, and truancy. National drug policy must address VSM and develop strategies to reduce demand and supply. Potential study limitations are noted.