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A Mixed-Methods Approach Examining Illicit Prescription Stimulant Use: Findings From a Northern California University
Niloofar Bavarian1, Jaimie McMullen2, Brian R Flay3
1College of Health and Human Services, California State University, Long Beach, 1250 Bellflower Blvd, Long Beach, CA, 90840, USA. Niloofar.Bavarian@csulb.edu.
The Journal of Primary Prevention
|March 1, 2017
Summary
Preventing prescription stimulant misuse among college students is crucial. This study found misuse is common, driven by academic and social factors, with prevention strategies needing to address health concerns and social norms.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Public Health
- Sociology
Background:
- Illicit use of prescription stimulants is a high-risk substance use behavior.
- Theory-guided research is essential for developing effective prevention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the prevalence, patterns, motivations, and correlates of illicit prescription stimulant use among undergraduate students.
- To identify reasons for abstaining from stimulant misuse to inform prevention efforts.
Main Methods:
- A random sample of 554 undergraduate students completed surveys.
- Thematic analysis was used for qualitative data on abstention reasons.
- Adjusted logistic regression analyses identified correlates of misuse.
Main Results:
- 17% of students reported illicit prescription stimulant use, with varied frequency and methods (oral, snorting, smoking).
- Primary sources were friends, often obtained at no cost.
- Motivations included academic enhancement and experimentation.
- Abstention was linked to health risks, ethics, and regulations.
- Correlates of misuse were intrapersonal, interpersonal, and environmental.
Conclusions:
- Prescription stimulant misuse among students is a significant concern with multifaceted contributing factors.
- Prevention strategies should incorporate social norms campaigns, address perceived prevalence, and highlight abstention rationales.
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