Height in adolescence predicts polydrug use in adolescence and young adulthood

Prior research has noted a relationship between an individual's height in adolescence and their personality development later in life. This study examined whether height in adolescence – net of possible confounding variables such as age and biological maturity – predicted polydrug use in adolescence and young adulthood. The results revealed a positive and statistically significant association, wherein taller youths were more likely to report using an array of drugs. Supplemental analyses indicated that the relationship is not specific to males as some theories would suggest. Possible mediating mechanisms such as exposure to drug-using peers, self-control, depression, and self-esteem are considered. Implications of the findings are discussed.

► Taller youths were more likely to report using an array of drugs. ► Relationship was not specific to males, taller females also reported greater polydrug use. ► Height effect was partially mediated by exposure to drug-using peers. ► Height effect was partially mediated by respondent’s level of self-control. ► Neither depression level nor level of self-esteem mediated the height effect.