Predicting Substance Abuse Behaviors: The Role of Big Five Personality Traits and Age in Alcohol, Marijuana, and Polysubstance Use

Abstract

Substance abuse is a major public health concern, and identifying the psychological factors that contribute to addiction is crucial for effective intervention and prevention efforts. This study examines the relationship between the Big Five personality traits—Neuroticism, Extraversion, Openness, Agreeableness, and Conscientiousness—and substance use, specifically alcohol, marijuana, and polysubstance abuse. A sample of 110 participants was selected through purposive sampling from the Suddhikaran De-addiction Center in Gorakhpur. The analysis, utilizing both regression and correlation methods, revealed notable correlations between personality traits and patterns of substance abuse. Neuroticism was positively linked to alcohol, marijuana, and polysubstance use, while higher Extraversion scores were associated with lower substance abuse, suggesting that individuals with elevated neuroticism and lower extraversion are more prone to addiction. Higher levels of Agreeableness and Conscientiousness were protective, indicating that individuals with these traits were less likely to engage in substance use. Furthermore, age was negatively correlated with substance abuse, with older participants showing a lower propensity for addiction. These results emphasize the complex role that personality traits play in substance use behaviors and highlight the need for tailored intervention strategies that consider individual psychological profiles. This study enhances our understanding of the psychological factors influencing substance abuse and provides a foundation for future clinical and research initiatives.