In recent analyses of MTF data, Jerry Bachman finds that working more than 15 hours a week is linked to lower grades, alcohol and tobacco consumption, and illicit drug use for high school students. Bachman acknowledges the possible selection effect, noting: “many kids who wind up working long hours already show evidence of some problems before they start working.” But he adds, “this certainly doesn’t rule out the possibility that long hours of work can add to the problems.” He also notes that SES was the most significant factor found for student success.

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