Intrapersonal Contributors to Drug Use

Abstract

Although social-environmental factors play a large role in the development of substance use and abuse, other important contributors reside within the individual. These intrapersonal factors help determine certain aspects of the social environment, which may in turn alter the probability of drug use and abuse. In addition, these intrapersonal factors alter chances of initiation, the transition from initiation to regular use of a drug, and the transition from regular drug use to problem use. These factors include (but are not limited to) personality, cognitions, affect, problem behaviors, demographics, and bonding. We explore the potential role of each of these intrapersonal factors in a larger, biopsychosocial model of drug use and abuse. We also discuss the implications of each of these factors for prevention.