A study on the relationship between university students' attitudes toward addictive substances and personality characteristics

The aim of this study is to examine the relationships between individuals' sociodemographic characteristics, substance use, environmental factors, and personality traits, in order to assess how their attitudes toward addictive substances are shaped. The study utilized the Five Factor Personality Inventory (FFPI) and the Attitudes Toward Addictive Substances Scale (ATASS) to investigate the effects of personality traits and environmental factors on attitudes related to addiction. Findings indicated that the variable of age had no significant effect on attitudes toward addiction, whereas marital status was found to be associated with the Agreeableness factor. Individuals living with their families exhibited more negative attitudes toward addictive substances, and parental education level was found to be a determining factor in both personality traits and attitudes toward addiction. In terms of substance use, cigarette use had no significant effect on attitudes toward addiction; however, individuals who consumed alcohol scored lower in the subdimensions of social and interpersonal relationships. Environmental factors were shown to have a strong impact on attitudes toward addiction; specifically, individuals who perceived substance use as widespread in their environment developed lower sensitivity toward addiction. Individuals receiving psychological support scored higher in the Agreeableness factor and demonstrated better social adjustment. Spearman's rho correlation analysis revealed a significant negative correlation between the Five Factor Personality Inventory and the Attitudes Toward Addictive Substances Scale, with the Neuroticism factor showing a strong relationship with attitudes toward addiction. In conclusion, the research shows that individuals' attitudes toward addiction are influenced by their personality traits, family and environmental factors, psychological support status, and sociodemographic variables.