An Examination of Multiple Substance Use Between African American and Caucasian Female College Students

Abstract

This study examined the use of alcohol, tobacco, marijuana, and cocaine among 445 African American and Caucasian female college students. Using the Core Alcohol and Drug Survey, the authors explored: (1) the extent of substance use; and (2) whether or not African American female college students were more or less likely to engage in the use of these substances compared to their Caucasian counterparts. Results indicated that alcohol was the most frequently used substance, with more than 73% of the participants reporting alcohol use. The second most commonly used drug was tobacco followed by marijuana; however, only one-fourth of the participants reported using these substances. Cocaine was the least frequently used substance, with less than 2% of the participants reporting the use of this substance. Results also indicated that Caucasian female college students were more likely to engage in the use of alcohol and tobacco than are African American female college students.

Key Words:

• Substance abuse
• women
• college drinking
• racial differences