Mixing More Than Substances: Risk and Protection in Poly-Drug Use Among Youth

• In Event: Drug Treatment, Program Effectiveness, and Predictive Analytics

Abstract

Substance use is linked to various negative consequences and individuals engaging in poly-drug use may face heightened risks. Research has suggested several risk factors that increase the risk of poly-drug use. Yet, few studies have explored factors that may protect against usage. The current study explores both, risk and protective factors, associated with poly-drug use among a sample of adjudicated youth. Using the Pathways to Desistance data and multinomial logistic regression analyses, preliminary findings show a number of risk and protective factors that distinguish polydrug use compared to single drug usage. Understanding these correlations are crucial for practitioners and can assist in developing targeted interventions that can improve treatment outcomes for justice-involved youth.

Authors

• Katherine Wilds, Tarleton State University

• Michelle N. Harris, University of North Carolina at Charlotte