The Relationship Between Demographic Variables and Substance Use in Undergraduates

The aim of this study was to explore the relationships between demographic variables and substance use during the last month among undergraduates. A self-administered questionnaire "Students 2004" was distributed among a convenience sample of undergraduates (n = 983; between the ages of 21 and 36) at a large, public university in the south of Poland. The data were analyzed statistically, using chi-squared test, logistic regression, and cluster analysis. The results indicated that excessive alcohol drinking and substance use among students are related to being male, studying social sciences, living in a dorm or apartment, and living in an urban area. Binge drinking is related to gender and living arrangement, whereas illicit drug use is associated with faculty and place of residence. Prevention programmes at universities should be targeted at male students, studying social sciences, living in a dorm, and living in an urban area.