The Multilevel Effects of Political Orientation and Political Climate on Substance Use Among Adolescents

The present study discerned the effects of individual political orientation and political climate on the use of alcohol, cannabis, cigarettes and e-cigarettes. The sample included Belgian (Dutch-speaking) secondary school students. Unlike previous studies, the results revealed that individual level left-wing orientation was negatively related to substance use. Radical-right orientation instead showed a positive relationship. In line with previous studies, left-wing climates curbed substance use, especially among the low and middle groups of left and radical right youth. Conversely, radical right climates fueled substance abuse, especially among radical-right youth. We discuss the possible role of rebelliousness and the necessity to raise critical thought about pseudoscience.