Partying, People and Partners
Academic Level at Time of Presentation
Junior
Major
Psychology
Minor
Music Performance
2nd Student Academic Level at Time of Presentation
Senior
2nd Student Major
Psychology
2nd Student Minor
Social Welfare
List all Project Mentors & Advisor(s)
Esther Malm, PhD.
Presentation Format
Oral Presentation
Abstract/Description
College for most young adults is the time to experiment and explore new things, and for some people, that could mean experimenting with new substances; previously, it was found that college students tend to consume alcohol more than their same-aged non-student peers (Hocking et al., 2017). We seek to understand how using substances affects our peers in their lives and if substance use has a significant impact on their daily interactions. This study specifically explores the relationship between frequent substance use and aspects of college experience, specifically focusing on interpersonal relationships and quality of social interaction. It was hypothesized that frequent substance use would correlate with a decline in the quality of romantic relationships and social situations. The research examines patterns of substance use and their associations with community engagement, aiming to understand the emerging adult experience in a university setting and the impact that it has on social aspects of life. Data collection through Sona is currently ongoing, with 88 completed responses from college students that will then be presented at Murray State's Scholars Week. Keywords: Substance Use, Interpersonal relationships, Social Interaction
Spring Scholars Week 2026
Psychology: Projects In-Progress
Partying, People and Partners
College for most young adults is the time to experiment and explore new things, and for some people, that could mean experimenting with new substances; previously, it was found that college students tend to consume alcohol more than their same-aged non-student peers (Hocking et al., 2017). We seek to understand how using substances affects our peers in their lives and if substance use has a significant impact on their daily interactions. This study specifically explores the relationship between frequent substance use and aspects of college experience, specifically focusing on interpersonal relationships and quality of social interaction. It was hypothesized that frequent substance use would correlate with a decline in the quality of romantic relationships and social situations. The research examines patterns of substance use and their associations with community engagement, aiming to understand the emerging adult experience in a university setting and the impact that it has on social aspects of life. Data collection through Sona is currently ongoing, with 88 completed responses from college students that will then be presented at Murray State's Scholars Week. Keywords: Substance Use, Interpersonal relationships, Social Interaction