Drunk in Love: The Influence of Romantic Relationships on Substance Use in Early Adulthood

• In Event: Drug Use Trajectories: Risk and Protective Factors

Abstract

In addition to a large literature showing adult social bonds are related to criminal behavior, a number of studies now show that adult social bonds are associated with substance use. However, this literature does not have a large focus on romantic relationships and their influence on substance use during emerging adulthood, a critical time characterized by a high prevalence of drug use. This study addresses drug use desistance and the different facets of relationship quality with a sample of adjudicated adolescents. The findings reveal relationship measures are significantly associated with alcohol, marijuana, and hard drug use within relationships.​

Authors

• Kate Angulski, Sam Houston State University

• Todd Armstrong, University of Nebraska, Omaha

• Leana Bouffard, Iowa State University