Motivational Antecedents of Drug Abuse in Male Adolescents in the City of Shiraz

This study aims to predict drug abuse in male adolescents based on motivational antecedents.
In This cross-sectional study, 450 adolescents were recruited from high schools in Shiraz through a convenience sampling method, and two scales of Iranian adolescents’ risk taking and motives for risk taking were completed for them. Data were analyzed using a Pearson correlation coefficient multiple regression analysis.
All the motives had a significant relationship with drug abuse. Moreover, the results of the multiple regression analysis showed that sensation seeking, irresponsibility, and calculation, had a significant role in predicting drug abuse in adolescents, respectively.
Therefore, prevention efforts aimed at reducing drug abuse should take these factors into account. In fact, the results suggested that earlier prevention efforts should be warranted.