Self-medicating Delinquency: The use of Drugs in Adolescents with Mental Health Issues

• In Event: Research on Health-Risk Behaviors among Adolescents: Drug Use and Weapon Carrying

Abstract

The self-medication hypothesis suggests that individuals who experience mental illness may use drugs to relieve their symptoms. In adolescence, these issues tend to be considered risk factors for delinquency. Though prior research has indicated both drug use and mental illness are risk factors for juvenile delinquency, few studies have sought to determine the concurrent effect of the two on delinquent behaviors. Using 12-17-year old participants of the SAHMDA National Survey on Drug Use and Health, the main research question attempted to answer if drug use (marijuana, alcohol, prescription pain pills, and sedatives) curbed delinquency for those who were experiencing mental health issues. Findings indicated that drug use and receiving mental health treatment in the past year were both positive and significant predictors of ever being arrested. However, the negative and significant interaction between alcohol or marijuana and mental health treatment indicated that these variables together lessen the risk of ever being arrested. These preliminary findings may indicate that, in some instances, the use of alcohol or marijuana may inhibit participation in other delinquent activities.

Authors

• Johanna M. Thomas, University of Arkansas

• Alesa R. Liles, Georgia College & State University