Profiling the druggie lifestyle: Characteristics related to southern college students\u27 use of illicit drugs

Drawing on self-report survey data from a sample of 1,2 18 Southern college/university students collected in 1998, this study examines the relationship of demographics, family and background statuses, peer influences, experiences of alcohol and tobacco use, and academic activities as they influence the use of illicit drugs. Separate examinations are conducted to construct the profile of individuals who use marijuana only and those who use harder (i.e., cocaine, stimulants, LSD, opiates, ecstasy) drugs. Results reveal that marijuana-only users received little/inconsistent supervision as children, are members of fewer social clubs/organizations, are more likely to skip class, smoke, party with friends, get drunk often, and get drunk in public. Harder drug users report little/inconsistent supervision as children, getting drunk frequently and In public, are less far along in their schooling, spend their leisure time partying at friends\u27 homes or bars where they are regulars, and/or going to concerts, and/or attending club functions, and are tobacco smokers