Stress, Race and Substance use in College

This study investigates the role of stress in the substance use behavior of black and white college students. We examine the issue across race and look both at measures of traumatic stress and life stress. A perusal of the research literature reveals that the relationship between traumatic stressors and substance use behavior among both black and white college students has yet to be examined. Data used in this study are from a convenience sample of 1,587 …

…that this is a factor associated with substance use behavior. Therefore, a mental health component to interventions designed to reduce drinking may be of benefit. Programs may need to be designed to address the underlying causes of substance use, as many are, but few may address general and traumatic stress. If students drink to cope with negative prior experiences, and/or the stress of the college environment, then prevention programs need to consider these issues.