Examining Substance Use and Predictors of Use in Undergraduate Students

Research is mixed on the common patterns of substance use within a college student population after trauma. Data was collected from students from a mid-sized, Midwestern university. Respondents often reported the use of combinations of medications and drugs that could lead to dangerous effects. Alcohol use was predicted by the substance use expectancies and nicotine may serve as a gateway drug. Students may find themselves using substances to cope with traumatic events. Keywords: substance use, anxiety, gender, expectancies