A Model of Substance Use Assumptions in Rural College Students

Abstract

Purpose: Substance use, particularly alcohol, marijuana, and opioid drugs, at colleges throughout the United States is problematic.  Consequences for this use range from embarrassment, legal and academic trouble, to health problems and even death.   Interventions to prevent and treat these issues run into many roadblocks due to population and location.  Targeted interventions tend to be the most effective.  Among the factors influencing college student substance use is the student’s attitudes and beliefs about their peers’ substance use.  Methodology: This study used data from the Core Alcohol and Drug Survey – Long Form gathered from a conveniences sample of 145 undergraduate students at a rural college to examine important factors in assumptions about peer substance use.  Ordinary least squares regression was used to analyze the data and find significant predictors of substance use within the last year. Findings: Student’s age, gender, and past use were the most important factors in determining student’s attitudes about peer substance use.  Interventions surrounding substance use attitudes should focus on younger students, female students, and students with a past history of substance use.  Limitations of the study are also discussed. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Social Norms Theory has demonstrated that perceived peer behavior influences individual substance use, less is known about the factors that shape these perceptions. Colleges should consider incorporating social norms education into substance use prevention programs, particularly during students' first year of enrollment.  Prevention efforts may be especially beneficial when targeted toward younger students, female students, and students with a history of substance use.  Educational interventions that provide accurate information regarding actual levels of peer substance use may help reduce misconceptions that contribute to risky behaviors.