Peers are influential online as in person

Peers are influential when it comes to alcohol and drug use, and they are just as influential online as they are in person, U.S. researchers suggest. Sarah Stoddard and colleagues at the University of Michigan School of Public Health in Ann Arbor conducted an online survey of 3,447 of U.S. adults ages 18-24. The survey found those who thought their parents and peers would be upset if they viewed images of their drinking and drug use online were less likely to drink. In addition, young adults who reported more online peer support were less likely to use alcohol. Stoddard and colleagues found those who were concerned about negative reactions from others if they were to post images of drinking and drug use online were less likely to report marijuana use. The study is scheduled to appear in the November issue of the Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs. No survey details were provided.