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Association of Social Network Characteristics with Substance Use among College-Going Young Adults: A Cross-Sectional
Pradeep Kumar P C1, Sojan Antony2, Pratima Murthy3
1Psychiatric Social Work, Dept. of Psychiatry, JSS Medical College and Hospital, Mysuru, Karnataka, India.
Background:
Family members, peers, and significant others are part of a college student's social network. This cross-sectional study aimed to Assess substance use prevalence and patterns among college students,Compare the social network characteristics of substance users (SUs) and non-users (NUs), andExplore the association of social factors with substance use.
Methods:
The study involved 902 students from 11 Government and aided private degree colleges. Demographic and clinical data sheet, ASSIST, and Social Network Questionnaire were used to collect the data.
Results:
Prevalence of substance use was 26.9% and higher among males (21.5%). Alcohol (20%) and tobacco (15.5%) were the commonly used substances. SUs' network was composed of unmarried persons (p<0.002), male members (p<0.001), and friends (p<0.001) with substance use. In contrast, the NUs' network comprised parents (p<0.016) and siblings (p<0.001). NUs had a higher number of influential members in the network, whereas SUs had more closeness with members and received higher financial support (p<0.001). Participant's age (OR 1.27), family history of substance use (OR 2.46), parents' occupation (Business: OR 1.79, being employee in the government or industry: OR 1.76),and having three substance-using members in the network (OR .211) were found to be risk factors.
Conclusion:
Social network has an association with substance use among college students. Social-network-based interventions may benefit them.
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