Substance Abuse and Dependency Risk: The Role of Peer Perceptions, Marijuana Involvement, and Attitudes Toward Substance Use Among College Students

• NCJ Number: 233691
• Journal: Journal of Drug Education Volume: 40 Issue: 3 Dated: 2010 Pages: 299-314
• Author(s): Todd F. Lewis; A. Keith Mobley
• Date Published: 2010
• Length: 16 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Research (Applied/Empirical)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This study examined which set of attitudinal risk factors (peer, family/environment, self) best describes those with a high probability of having a Substance Use Disorder (SUD).

Abstract

Many college students are using substances at levels consistent with substance abuse or dependence, yet little explanation for this phenomenon exists. The aim of this study was to explore a risk factor profile that best separates those with low and high potential for having a Substance Use Disorder (SUD). A discriminant function analysis revealed that participants with a high probability of having a SUD misperceive others' alcohol and marijuana use to a greater extent than those with a low probability of having a SUD. Implications for educators and counselors on college campuses are discussed. (Published Abstract) Tables and references