Psychological Science Faculty Publications and Presentations

Personality and Substance Use in Mexicans and Mexican-Americans

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

12-2016

Abstract

Within the theoretical framework of the five-factor model of personality, existing research identifies personality profiles significantly related to certain at-risk behaviors, such as substance use and poor health outcomes. Among Latinos, there is limited knowledge on whether personality traits are associated with substance use behaviors. This study uses a sample of Mexican (N = 323) and Mexicans American (N = 1,143) participants to examine the interplay of culture and personality differences in relation to substance use and alcohol dependence. Mexican Americans reported higher use of cocaine and marijuana, while Mexicans were more likely to report cigarette smoking. Lower Agreeableness and Conscientiousness were associated with a higher likelihood of substance use and alcohol dependence. Higher Extraversion was associated with higher likelihood of substance use, Openness with marijuana use, and for Neuroticism the associations differed across cultural groups and drug-type used. The study identified cross-cultural communalities and differences in personality traits related to drug use and dependence.

Comments

Reprints and Permissions

https://rdcu.be/dcsAD

Publication Title

International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction

DOI

10.1007/s11469-016-9639-5

Link to Full Text

Share

COinS