- Table of Contents
BackgroundMotivations for Use
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People use substances for a variety of reasons, often based on the environment, trauma, and genetics, but generally research demonstrates that people use substances for five main reasons6:
- Curiosity
- To fit in
- To feel good (e.g. celebrating)
- To feel better (e.g. coping)
- To perform better (i.e. academically, athletically, etc.)
Risk Factors
Most people who use substances do not develop a substance use disorder, but certain risk factors increase the likelihood that someone will develop a SUD.
A risk factor is a characteristic at the biological, psychological, family, community, or cultural level that precedes and is associated with a higher likelihood of problem outcomes.
Risk factors for substance use disorders can include genetics, the environment, experiences of trauma and the drug itself. Unfortunately, many risk factors are related and can occur together.7
Image based on Penn State Collegiate Recovery Program, Recovery Ally Program
Protective Factors
A protective factor is a characteristic at the biological, psychological, family, community, or cultural level that precedes and is associated with a lower likelihood of problem outcomes.
Genetics and the environment can also be protective factors (i.e. no family history of SUD, stable home environment). Other protective factors in early adulthood for SUD include:
- Low expectations of alcohol/drug use
- Parental monitoring and involvement
- Perceived peer disapproval of use
- Involvement in service-based activities
- Religiosity/spirituality8
