Patterns of Drug Use in Sorority and Fraternity Life

• In Event: Drug and Alcohol on College Campuses and Among Young Adults

Abstract

Despite data that show individuals between 18 and 25 years use illicit drugs at an increased rate (See SAMHSA, 2015), few studies examine the relationship between fraternity and sorority affiliation and illicit drug use (i.e., cocaine, MDMA). Substance use studies on fraternities and sororities focus on alcohol or prescription stimulants. This study fills that gap in the literature by assessing patterns of illicit drug use among 1,500 current fraternity and sorority members. Data were collected via a survey that queried demographics, years of participation and leadership in the Greek organization, prescription drug, illicit drug, and alcohol use patterns inside and outside of Greek events, and peer influence on onset and persistence of use. This study tests the following hypotheses: (1) those in leadership positions are less likely to use than those who have not held such positions; (2) those new to the Greek organization are likely to have lower rates of use than those who are not new; and (3) Greek-affiliated individuals are more likely to pressure individuals to use than non-Greek affiliated individuals. The findings from this study provide a framework for educating college students in fraternities and sororities on substance use harms and prevention.

Authors

• Maryanne Alderson, California State University, Long Beach

• Dina Perrone, California State University, Long Beach