Do Personality Characteristics Affect Use of Specific Drugs?

• In Event: Substance Use Predictors and Consequences in College Students and Young Adults

Abstract

Prior research has established a relationship between personality traits and addictive behaviors, such as drug use. However, research has not fully addressed whether these personality characteristics affect use and/or dependence to specific drugs. Additionally, criminological research has not determined how personality affects drug use over the life course or whether reciprocal causation exists in this relationship. The current study uses the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health (Add Health) data to more clearly establish the link between certain personality traits and use of specific drugs, and how this relationship develops over the life course. Results and future implications for research and drug treatment will also be discussed.

Author

• Wanda E. Leal, Florida State University