Resumo

MEDEIROS, Sandra Braga de et al. Prevalence of drug use among students from a private university from southern Brazil. Aletheia [online]. 2012, n.38-39, pp. 81-93. ISSN 1413-0394.

The aim of the present study was to investigate the prevalence of and motives for consumption of alcohol, tobacco and other drugs by undergraduate students. The sample consisted of 560 students, between 17 and 74 years (M = 31.16, SD = 11.10). Results showed highest lifetime use rates for alcohol and tobacco among substances. Regarding illicit substances, marijuana, amphetamines and cocaine were the most reported. Lifetime alcohol use was more prevalent among men than women, and consumption of amphetamines or ecstasy within the last three months was more prevalent among women than men. Fun or pleasure seeking, curiosity and tension relief were the most frequent motives for using drugs. Although almost 90% of the sample showed positive attitude toward implementing a prevention program in the university, men and substance users were significantly less favorable. Results suggest the need for preventions specifically targeted at reducing substance use in the Brazilian university context.

Palavras-chave : Substance use; Prevalence; Undergraduate students.

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