Date of Award
2-10-2025
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)
First Advisor
Winston Seegobin, PsyD, Chair
Second Advisor
Rodger K. Bufford, PhD, Member
Third Advisor
Bill Buhrow, PsyD, Member
Abstract
The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic brought unprecedented societal changes in recent years. Beyond the direct health impacts of COVID-19, the pandemic has significantly impacted various aspects of society, including substance use behaviors. Substance use has been a longstanding public health concern in the United States as a means to combat stressors. Substance use-related issues impact over 18 million Americans, causing detriments to financial, interpersonal, and societal well-being. The present study aims to analyze the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent quarantine measures on substance use behaviors in U.S. adults before the pandemic and during the pandemic with Asian, Black, Hispanic or Latino, and White individuals. Additionally, substance use behaviors in adults before the pandemic and during the pandemic will be compared based on socioeconomic status. Results of this study demonstrated associations with increases in all substance use measures, where illicit drug use and tobacco were significant, but alcohol use was not significant. Results also demonstrated a significant association with increases in illicit drug and tobacco use rates when tested by ethnic group, whereas alcohol use was associated with decreased use. Finally, results demonstrated a significant negative association with socioeconomic status and substance use behaviors.
Recommended Citation
Weaver, Nelson, "The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Substance Use Behaviors in U.S. Adults" (2025). Doctor of Psychology (PsyD). 582.
https://digitalcommons.georgefox.edu/psyd/582
