Personality Profiles of Drug Users
Author Information
Author(s): Antonio Terracciano, Corinna E. Löckenhoff, Rosa M. Crum, O. Joseph Bienvenu, Paul T. Costa Jr.
Primary Institution: National Institute on Aging, NIH, DHHS, Baltimore, USA
Hypothesis
The study compares the personality profiles of drug users and non-users using the Five-Factor Model of personality.
Conclusion
The study highlights the links between drug use and low Conscientiousness, providing insights for public health interventions.
Supporting Evidence
- Current smokers score lower on Conscientiousness and higher on Neuroticism compared to never smokers.
- Cocaine and heroin users exhibit very high levels of Neuroticism and low levels of Conscientiousness.
- Marijuana users score high on Openness to Experience but low on Agreeableness and Conscientiousness.
- Low Conscientiousness is consistently associated with tobacco, heroin, and cocaine use.
Takeaway
People who use drugs often have different personality traits than those who don't, like being less organized and more anxious.
Methodology
Participants completed the Revised NEO Personality Inventory and substance use was assessed through systematic interviews.
Potential Biases
Some individuals might be reluctant to disclose their illicit drug use.
Limitations
The sample may not represent the entire US population, and self-reported drug use could lead to misclassification.
Participant Demographics
Participants had a mean age of 57, with 62% female, 63% White/Non-Hispanic, and 34% Black/Non-Hispanic.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.01
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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