Work

How Do Risky Behaviors and Mental Health Differ Among Students Based on Undergraduate Class Status?

Year: 2022

Type: article

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to examine the relationships among undergraduate class status, risky behaviors (i.e., alcohol and marijuana use, sexual activity), life satisfaction, and ability to cope. METHODS: = 2,961) completed an electronic survey to assess for mental health status and risky behaviors. RESULTS: Compared with others, first-year students reported fewer days of having at least one alcoholic drink, fewer days of having five or more alcoholic drinks in a row, and less frequency of marijuana use. First-year students reported fewer sexual partners and less frequency of sexual activity compared with others. First-year students were more likely to report greater life satisfaction, being able to cope with difficult situations, and greater self-worth, compared with others. CONCLUSIONS: As undergraduate students progress through their academic career, they are more likely to engage in risky behaviors and experience life dissatisfaction.

Source: Journal of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association

DOI: 10.1177/10783903211066126

Authors: Karen Jennings Mathis, Holly Carden, Alexis Tavares, Alia Al Sanea

Institution: University of Rhode Island

Language: English

Topic: Substance Abuse Treatment and Outcomes

Subfield: Epidemiology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: green

Funder: University of Rhode Island