TOPIC: EXPLORING THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN
PERSONALITY TRAITS AND SUBSTANCE USE AMONG
UNDERGRADUATES
INTRODUCTION
Background of the Study
Substance use among undergraduate students has become a pressing concern
globally, with far-reaching consequences for their physical and mental health,
academic performance, and overall well-being. The prevalence of substance use
among undergraduate students is alarming, with studies indicating that a
significant proportion of students engage in substance use behaviours, including
alcohol, tobacco Substance use refers to the consumption of alcohol, drugs, or
other psychoactive substances. This behaviour can range from casual or
experimental use to problematic or dependent use, where individuals may
develop a tolerance or addiction. The effects of substance use vary depending
on the substance, the amount consumed, and the individual's physical and
psychological condition.
SUBSTANCE USE
Substance use can be influenced by various factors, including genetic
predisposition, environmental influences, social norms, mental health
conditions, and personal experiences. Genetic factors have been shown to play a
significant role in the risk of substance use disorders (SUDs) (Goldman et al.,
2005). Environmental influences, such as family dynamics, exposure to
substance use at an early age, and socioeconomic status, can also impact an
individual's likelihood of engaging in substance use (Bennett et al., 2009).
Social norms and peer pressure, particularly in cultures or communities where
substance use is normalized, further shape individual behaviour . Additionally,
individuals with mental health conditions such as depression or anxiety may be
at greater risk for substance use, often using substances as a form of self-
medication (Khantzian , 1997). Personal experiences, including trauma and
stress, are also significant risk factors for developing SUDs While some people
use substances recreationally or to cope with stress, others may develop
substance use disorders, characterized by a compulsive need to continue using
substances despite negative consequences (American Psychiatric Association,
2013).
Understanding substance use involves recognizing both its potential risks and
benefits, the social and cultural contexts in which it occurs, and the various
health, legal, and economic implications. Efforts to address substance use often
involve prevention, education, treatment, and harm reduction strategies to
minimize its negative impact on individuals and society and illicit drug use.
Definition of Substance Use
Substance use refers to the consumption of psychoactive substances, including
illicit drugs, prescription medications, and alcohol. These substances can alter
an individual's mood, perception, and behaviour, which is why they are often
used recreationally or for therapeutic purposes (Volkow et al., 2016).
Psychoactive substances affect the brain's chemistry and can result in both
short-term and long-term changes in mental and physical functioning (Koob &
Volkow, 2010).
Types of Substances (ICD-11TH ed)
Substances can be categorized into several types based on their chemical composition,
effects, and potential for addiction:
1. Stimulants
Cocaine: A highly addictive stimulant that can cause euphoria, increased energy, and
alertness.
Amphetamines: Prescription medications used to treat ADHD and narcolepsy, but often
misused for their stimulant effects.
Methamphetamine: A highly addictive and potent stimulant that can cause long-term damage
to the brain and body.
2. Depressants
Alcohol: A widely used depressant that can cause relaxation, reduced inhibition, and impaired
judgment.
Benzodiazepines: Prescription medications used to treat anxiety and insomnia, but often
misused for their sedative effects.
Barbiturates: Prescription medications used to treat anxiety and insomnia, but often misused
for their sedative effects.
3. Hallucinogens
LSD (Lysergic Acid Diethylamide): A potent hallucinogen that can cause altered perception,
hallucinations, and changes in mood.
Psilocybin (Magic Mushrooms): A naturally occurring hallucinogen found in certain
mushrooms, which can cause altered perception, hallucinations, and changes in mood.
PCP (Phencyclidine): A dissociative aesthetic that can cause hallucinations, altered
perception, and changes in mood.
4. Opioids
Heroin: A highly addictive opioid that can cause euphoria, relaxation, and reduced pain.
Prescription Opioids: Medications used to treat pain, such as oxycodone, hydrocodone, and
fentanyl, which can be highly addictive.
Fentanyl: A synthetic opioid that is 50-100 times more potent than morphine.
5. Cannabis
Marijuana: A psychoactive substance that can cause relaxation, altered perception, and
changes in mood.
Hashish: A concentrated form of cannabis that can cause more intense effects.
6. Inhalants
Solvents: Substances such as paint thinner, glue, and gasoline that can cause intoxication and
altered perception.
Aerosols: Substances such as spray paint and hair spray that can cause intoxication and
altered perception.
Nitrites: Substances such as amyl nitrite that can cause relaxation and altered perception.
Substance Use Disorders
Substance use disorders occur when an individual's substance use causes significant distress,
impairment, or risk of harm. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders,
Fifth Edition (DSM-5) outlines the criteria for diagnosing substance use disorders, which
include: taking the substance in larger amounts or over a longer period than intended; having
a desire or unsuccessful efforts to cut down or control substance use; spending a great deal of
time in activities necessary to obtain, use, or recover from the substance; experiencing
cravings, or a strong desire or urge to use the substance; and recurrent substance use resulting
in failure to fulfil major role obligations at work, school, or home. Other criteria include
continued substance use despite interpersonal problems, giving up or reducing important
activities due to substance use, recurrent substance use in hazardous situations, and continued
use despite physical or psychological problems caused or worsened by the substance.
Additionally, tolerance (increased amounts needed for the desired effect or diminished effects
with continued use) and withdrawal (manifested by withdrawal symptoms or using the
substance to avoid withdrawal) are significant indicators of substance use disorders
(American Psychiatric Association, 2013).
Consequences of Substance Use
Substance use can have serious consequences for an individual’s physical, mental, and
emotional well-being. It can lead to addiction, where a person becomes dependent on the
substance, and overdose, which can be fatal (Volkow et al., 2016). Long-term use may cause
chronic health conditions, such as liver or heart disease, and increase the risk of mental health
disorders like depression and anxiety (NIDA, 2020). Substance use also impairs cognitive
function, making it harder to think clearly, and increases the likelihood of accidents or
injuries (Swan, 2015). It can strain relationships with family and friends, lead to financial
problems due to the cost of substances or related behaviour, and cause legal issues from
criminal activities like driving under the influence (Meyer, 2017). These consequences can
significantly disrupt a person’s life, making it harder to maintain health, stability, and
personal connections (National Institute on Drug Abuse [NIDA], 2020).
Addiction
Addiction is a chronic, relapsing condition where an individual compulsively seeks and uses
a substance, despite negative consequences. It can lead to physical and psychological
dependence, making it difficult to stop using the substance without professional help
(Volkow et al., 2016).
Overdose
An overdose occurs when the amount of a substance consumed exceeds what the body can
handle, often leading to life-threatening consequences. Overdoses can cause respiratory
failure, heart problems, and even death, depending on the substance and dosage (Meyers,
2017).
Chronic Diseases (e.g., liver disease, heart disease)
Long-term substance use can damage vital organs. For example, excessive alcohol use can
lead to liver cirrhosis, while tobacco and certain recreational drugs increase the risk of
cardiovascular disease. Chronic diseases can lower life expectancy and quality of life (Rehm
et al., 2013).
Mental Health Disorders (e.g., depression, anxiety)
Substance use can contribute to or exacerbate mental health issues. For instance, alcohol and
drug abuse are linked to increased levels of depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders.
These conditions can be both a result of substance use and a factor that drives continued use
(Khantzian, 1997).
Impaired Cognitive Function
Long-term substance abuse can impair cognitive functions like memory, attention, decision-
making, and problem-solving. These cognitive impairments may persist even after the person
stops using substances, affecting their ability to work, study, or engage socially (Swan, 2015).
Increased Risk of Accidents and Injuries
Substance use, particularly alcohol and drugs, can impair coordination, judgment, and
reaction times. This increases the likelihood of accidents such as car crashes, falls, and
injuries related to risky behaviors or impaired decision-making (Beirness & Simpson, 2006).
Strained Relationships
Substance abuse often leads to conflicts with family, friends, and coworkers. Users may
prioritize substances over relationships, and the behaviors associated with addiction, such as
secrecy, lying, and irresponsibility, can erode trust and cause emotional distress for loved
ones (Meyer, 2017).
Financial Problems
The cost of purchasing substances, particularly illicit drugs or alcohol, can lead to significant
financial strain. Addiction can also interfere with a person’s ability to maintain employment,
further exacerbating financial difficulties, sometimes leading to debt, bankruptcy, or criminal
activity to fund the habit (Sinha, 2008).
Legal Problems
Engaging in illegal drug use, driving under the influence, or being caught with substances can
result in legal consequences. Criminal charges, fines, arrests, or imprisonment can have long-
lasting impacts on an individual's personal and professional life (National Institute on Drug
Abuse [NIDA], 2020).
Each of these consequences can deeply affect not only the person using substances but also
those around them. Addressing substance use early on is crucial to prevent these negative
outcomes and support healthier, more fulfilling lives (NIDA, 2020).
What is personality
Personality refers to the unique combination of characteristics, traits, and patterns of thought,
feeling, and behaviour that define an individual's identity and distinguish them from others. It
encompasses various aspects, including temperament, habits, emotional responses, and social
interactions, which collectively shape how a person perceives and interacts with the world
(McCrae & Costa, 2006; Pervin, 2002). Personality is often studied through models that
categorize traits, such as the Five-Factor Model, which includes openness, conscientiousness,
extraversion, agreeableness, and neuroticism, to explain individual differences (McCrae &
Costa, 2006).including:
1. Temperament: Innate personality traits, such as introversion or extroversion.
2. Character: Moral and ethical qualities, like honesty or kindness.
3. Personality traits: Stable patterns of behaviour, such as conscientiousness or neuroticism.
4. Cognitive styles: Ways of thinking, perceiving, and processing information.
5. Emotional patterns: Typical emotional responses and regulation strategies.
Personality is shaped by a complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and social factors,
and it influences various aspects of life, including relationships, career choices, and overall
well-being.
Definition of Personality Traits
Personality traits refer to the relatively stable patterns of thoughts, feelings, and behaviours
that define an individual's personality (McCrae & Costa, 2003; Pervin, 2002). These traits are
often described as characteristics or dimensions that shape an individual's interactions with
the environment and influence their behaviour.
Theories of Personality Traits
Several theories have been proposed to explain the nature and development of personality
traits. Some of the most influential theories include:
.1Allport's Trait Theory: Proposed by Gordon Allport, this theory suggests that personality
traits are relatively stable and enduring characteristics that influence behaviour.
2. Eysenck's Personality Theory: Developed by Hans Eysenck, this theory proposes that
personality traits can be reduced to three super traits: extraversion, neuroticism, and
psychoticism.
3. Big Five Personality Theory: Also known as the Five Factor Model (FFM), this theory
proposes that personality traits can be reduced to five broad dimensions: openness,
conscientiousness, extraversion, agreeableness, and neuroticism.
The Big Five Personality Traits
The Big Five personality traits are widely accepted as the most comprehensive and
empirically supported framework for understanding personality. The five traits include:
1. Openness to Experience: This trait includes characteristics such as curiosity, open-
mindedness, and a love of learning. Individuals high in openness tend to be creative,
imaginative, and appreciate art and ideas (McCrae & Costa, 1997).
2. Conscientiousness: This trait includes characteristics such as organization, self-
discipline, and responsibility. Individuals high in conscientiousness tend to be
reliable, efficient, and goal-oriented (Costa & McCrae, 1992).
3. Extraversion: This trait includes characteristics such as sociability, assertiveness, and
excitement-seeking. Individuals high in extraversion tend to be outgoing, talkative,
and enjoy social interactions (McCrae & Costa, 1997).
4. Agreeableness: This trait includes characteristics such as cooperation, empathy, and
kindness. Individuals high in agreeableness tend to be warm, sensitive, and concerned
with the feelings of others (Costa & McCrae, 1992).
5. Neuroticism: This trait includes characteristics such as anxiety, anger, and
vulnerability. Individuals high in neuroticism tend to be sensitive to stress, prone to
negative emotions, and may experience anxiety or depression (McCrae & Costa,
1997).
Definition of Personality Disorders
Personality disorders are a group of mental health conditions characterized by enduring,
inflexible, and maladaptive patterns of behaviour, cognition, and inner experience. These
patterns deviate markedly from cultural norms and expectations, leading to significant
distress, impairment, or risk of harm to oneself or others.
Types of Personality Disorders
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5 2013,ICD-
10th ed1996)
recognizes 10 distinct personality disorders, grouped into three clusters:
Cluster A: Odd/Eccentric Personality Disorders
1. Paranoid Personality Disorder: Characterized by pervasive distrust, suspiciousness, and
hostility towards others.
2. Schizoid Personality Disorder: Marked by a lack of interest in social relationships,
emotional coldness, and aloofness.
3. Schizotypal Personality Disorder: Characterized by eccentric behaviour, unusual
perceptions, and difficulties with social relationships.
Cluster B: Dramatic/Emotional Personality Disorders
1. Borderline Personality Disorder: Marked by instability in relationships, emotions, and self-
image, with impulsivity and self-destructive behaviours.
2. Histrionic Personality Disorder: Characterized by excessive emotionality, attention-seeking
behaviour, and a need for approval.
3. Narcissistic Personality Disorder: Marked by grandiosity, a need for admiration, and a lack
of empathy for others.
4. Antisocial Personality Disorder: Characterized by a disregard for others' rights, feelings,
and safety, with impulsivity and aggression.
Cluster C: Anxious/Fearful Personality Disorders
1. Avoidant Personality Disorder: Marked by social avoidance, feelings of inadequacy, and
hypersensitivity to criticism.
2. Dependent Personality Disorder: Characterized by a need for others to take responsibility,
excessive dependence on others, and fear of abandonment.
3. Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder: Marked by a preoccupation with orderliness,
perfectionism, and control, with rigidity and stubbornness.
Personality traits have been defined mostly as relatively stable patterns of thoughts, feelings,
and actions where each individual differs from others. That is, personality traits are stable
over time and across contexts but yet changeable. The study of personality traits is an integral
part of psychology because it helps to explain the diversity in human behaviours and provides
insight into individual differences. The general idea behind the concept is that people have
stable personality traits, based on observation that individuals consistently behave in specific
ways across different situations and time.
For example, some people are always outgoing and social (extraverted), while others have a
tendency to be reclusive and shy (introverted). Likewise, some individuals may be
hardworking and responsible (conscientious), while others are spontaneous and carefree (low
conscientiousness).
Conceptualization of Personality Traits
Personality trait refers to a habitual pattern of behaviour, thought, or emotion that
characterizes an individual. Traits are generally viewed as consistent over time and across
situations, although they can also be influenced by changes in context, life experiences, and
personal growth.
While people may display those different traits to varying degrees, those traits often form
stable, enduring patterns that are not only predictable but also allow for the making of strong
inferences. For example, a neuroticism -that is, a very high scorer on neuroticism-is going to
live more of his or her life in negative emotions-about anxiety and sadness-than somebody
low in neuroticism.
It One of the most widely accepted and scientifically supported models for understanding
personality is the Five-Factor Model (FFM), also known as the Big Five personality traits.
This model posits that there are five broad dimensions of personality, each representing a
continuum of traits, ranging from high to low:
It is essential to understand personality traits since they affect almost every area of human
life. Examples include stress reactions, interactions with other individuals, and decision-
making processes. In the case of substance use, personality traits would determine whether an
individual would engage more or less in such risky behaviours, such as alcohol and drug use.
Example: For instance, a study may show that neuroticism is linked with the tendency of
increasing substance use as an escape or coping mechanism while the same research may
indicate that those individuals who are high in conscientiousness have minimal tendencies for
substance use reasons. Similarly, extraverted individuals may be more prone to engage in
social drinking and other group-based substance use-related activities,
whereas agreeable individuals may abstain from such behaviours in order not to disturb
harmonious relations with others (Robins et al., 2001).
Personality characteristics also have a ripple effect on other aspects of one's life, such as
academic performance, mental health, social relationships, and professional success. For
instance, individuals with the trait of conscientiousness are likely to achieve their academic
goals because of such traits as organization and disciplines. Those with the attribute of
neuroticism become more prone to mental-related disorders, such as depression and anxiety
(Ozer & Benet-Martínez, 2006).Such knowledge of traits has not only helped psychologists
have a better understanding of specific behaviours but also been quite helpful in prevention
and interventions in various settings, among them substance use, mental health, and
education.