The Use of Psychoactive Substances by Working University Students

Abstract

Given the growth in the use of psychoactive substances among university students, the present research aimed to investigate the use of these substances by sex (men and women), situation of work (to be work or no), and age (younger than 29 years old and older). The research was carried out in two institutions in the private sector in Belo Horizonte. Regarding the methodology, structured questionnaires were applied to 868 students, which were answered anonymously. The responses were analyzed statistically. The factorial analysis identified two types of psychoactive substances – Prescribe and Non-prescribed ones. Regression analysis showed that only sex presents predicting capacity to scores in the factors. The use of coffee as a stimulating substance is more frequent among students that are workers and who are older than 29 years. The results can be important for the design of a specific instrument, as well as to direct new research about the dynamics of work influencing such behaviors.