Date Approved
9-30-2014
Embargo Period
3-3-2020
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
M.A. School Psychology-Professional School Psychology
Department
Educational Services, Administration, and Higher Education
College
College of Education
Advisor
Allen, Terri
Subject(s)
Post-traumatic stress disorder; Substance abuse; College students
Disciplines
Higher Education | Student Counseling and Personnel Services
Abstract
The purpose of this exploratory study was to determine a significant correlation between post-traumatic stress (PTSD) symptoms and substance use in undergraduate college students. A review of the existing literature was examined and showed a significant correlation between PTSD and substance use, including alcohol, marijuana and other drugs. Literature also showed correlations between PTSD and cigarette use in undergraduate college students. A PTSD questionnaire was conducted based on DSM-5 criteria scale. A personal Experience Screening questionnaire for adults (PESQ-A) was also used to examine the frequency and degree of substances used by participants. Correlational analyses for this study revealed no significant relationship between PTSD symptoms and substance use. However, due to the limitations of this study, including a very small sample size, the interpretations of the findings are discussed.
Recommended Citation
Buscemi, Melissa, "An exploratory investigation of the relationship between PTSD symptoms and substance abuse in undergraduate college students" (2014). Theses and Dissertations. 443.
https://rdw.rowan.edu/etd/443
