Abstract
The current study involved an examination of the impact of a peer-led substance use intervention program on the peer leaders
beyond the substance use-related goals of the intervention. Specifically, unintended consequences of an adult-sanctioned intervention
on the targeted peer leader change agents were investigated, including whether their participation affected their peer status,
social influence, or self perceptions. Twenty-two 7th grade peer-identified intervention leaders were compared to 22 control
leaders (who did not experience the intervention) and 146 cohort peers. Three groups of measures were employed: sociometric
and behavioral nominations, social cognitive mapping, and leadership self-perceptions. Results indicated that unintended consequences
appear to be a legitimate concern for females. Female intervention leaders declined in perceived popularity and liked most
nominations over time, whereas males increased in total leader nominations. Explanations for these results are discussed and
further directions suggested.
beyond the substance use-related goals of the intervention. Specifically, unintended consequences of an adult-sanctioned intervention
on the targeted peer leader change agents were investigated, including whether their participation affected their peer status,
social influence, or self perceptions. Twenty-two 7th grade peer-identified intervention leaders were compared to 22 control
leaders (who did not experience the intervention) and 146 cohort peers. Three groups of measures were employed: sociometric
and behavioral nominations, social cognitive mapping, and leadership self-perceptions. Results indicated that unintended consequences
appear to be a legitimate concern for females. Female intervention leaders declined in perceived popularity and liked most
nominations over time, whereas males increased in total leader nominations. Explanations for these results are discussed and
further directions suggested.
- Content Type Journal Article
- Pages 1-11
- DOI 10.1007/s11121-011-0248-z
- Authors
- Christopher S. Sheppard, Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Duke University, Box 90086, Durham, NC 27708, USA
- Megan Golonka, Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Duke University, Box 90086, Durham, NC 27708, USA
- Philip R. Costanzo, Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Duke University, Box 90086, Durham, NC 27708, USA
- Journal Prevention Science
- Online ISSN 1573-6695
- Print ISSN 1389-4986