The purpose of this study was to examine the role of depression as it relates to substance use in a conservative religious sample. Data were obtain from a campus drug assessment. This was the fifth such assessment done in the past 12 years at a mid-western conservative church affiliated university which is ranked high for ethnic diversity. Compared to the Monitoring the Future study our sample had a much lower level of drug use, on the five drugs studied. Based on scores on the Beck Depression Inventory there was significantly less depression when compared to three other BDI samples. For males, compared to females, a larger amount of the variance within drug use could be accounted for with those who had BDI scores indicative of depression. Those who are involved in a conservative religion may have lower levels of substance use and depression. While there is a significant relationship between the depression index and drug use, it only explains about 5% of the variance. Males with scores indicative of depression may be more likely to use drugs to deal with their depression.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this session, participants will be able to recognize the role depression plays in drug use among a conservative religious group.
Keywords: Depression, Drug Use
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.