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Table of Contents
Abstract…………………………………………………………………………………………...1
Introduction……………………………………………………………………………………....1
Prescription Stimulants and College Campuses………………………………………………..3
Purpose and Objectives……………………………………………………………………….....5
Methods…………………………………………………………………………………………...5
Participants……………………………………………………………………………………...5
Instrumentation………………………………………………………………………………....5
Data Analysis…………………………………………………………………………………...6
Results………………………………………………………………………………………….…6
Demographics…………………………………………………………………………………..6
Usage…………………………………………..…………………………………………….….7
Perceptions…………………………………………………………………………………..….7
Discussion………………………………………………………………………………………...8
Limitations……………………………………………………………………………………..9
Future Action………………………………………………………………………………….10
References…………………………………………………………………………………….…11
Tables…………………………………………………………………………………………....15
Appendix……………………………………………………………………………..……….....17
Instrument: Rough Draft………………………………………………………………………18
Instrument: Final…………………………………………………………………………...….21
1
Abstract
Purpose: Nonmedical prescription stimulant use has become a pervasive health concern on
college campuses and puts users at risk for dependence and potential health problems.
Knowledge on local students’ nonmedical use of prescription stimulants can aid in developing
educational resources provided on campus to decrease the risks posed by nonmedical use. A
survey was used to determine the use and perceptions of prescription stimulants amongst college
students.
Methods: Students at a Pacific Northwest university were surveyed on demographics,
usage, and perceptions of prescription stimulants. The survey was created using qualtrics and
underwent a preliminary pilot test before being sent out on a link through text message, email,
and Facebook. Results were then transferred from qualtrics to SPSS for data analysis.
Results: 63% (n = 30) of participants reported taking prescription stimulants at least once
with their primary reason being either ADD/ADHD (11%, n = 3), studying (79%, n = 22),
dieting/weight loss (4%, n = 1), to get high (4%, n = 1), or to be more social (4%, n = 1). All
students perceived that prescription stimulants were effective for their intended reasons. 70% of
participants that took a prescription stimulant also mixed with some other substance, alcohol
being the most common. There was also a significant relationship between the perception of
accessibility to prescription stimulants and if one have a prescription (X² = 0.029, p-value =
0.05). The association between housing and prescription stimulant usage was significant (X²
=0.039, p-value = 0.05).
Conclusion: The results showed a presence of both use and selling of nonmedical
prescription stimulant. This indicates an availability of prescription stimulants on this
university’s campus and the need for programs addressing prescription stimulant abuse to
prevent future negative health outcomes.
Key words: prescription stimulants, college students, perceptions, use
Introduction
Prescription stimulants are used in the treatment of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity
Disorder (ADD/ADHD) to manage common symptoms such as inattention, hyperactivity,
impulsive behavior, as well as to help maintain or improve social relationships (National
Institutes on Drug Abuse [NIDA], 2014). In recent years, there has been a rise in the number of
individuals who have been diagnosed with ADD/ADHD (DeSantis et al., 2008). In 2011, the US
Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) reported that approximately 48 million prescription
stimulant drugs were dispensed, which is a 40% increase since 2007. The increase in stimulant
distribution leads to wider availability for nonmedical use, which can be defined as consuming
2
medication in ways that do not follow the prescribing healthcare professional’s instructions, or
taking a prescription medication without a valid prescription (U.S. Department of Health and
Human Services [U.S. HHS], 2010).
Common nonmedical uses of prescription stimulants include partying, dieting, and
studying because prescription stimulants increase the release of neurotransmitters which result in
an increase in energy levels and concentration, and a decrease in appetite and need for sleep
(Gallucci et al., 2015). Students have reported using stimulants to stay awake longer to party or
to consume larger quantities of alcohol (U.S. HHS, 2010). Mixing prescription stimulants with
alcohol is a concern because stimulants mask the effects of alcohol and can lead to excessive
drinking and intoxication (Messina et al., 2014). Along with additional energy, prescription
stimulants suppress one’s appetite and often results in weight loss. Weight loss is seen as a
beneficial side-effect, or even be the primary motive for stimulant use for some individuals.
(Messina et al., 2014). Despite the high levels of usage, many are unaware of the risk factors of
nonmedical use of prescription stimulant, putting them at risk for engaging in risky behavior.
Prescription stimulants can be highly addictive and with each use there is an increased
risk for both psychological and physical dependence, which can result in chronic use. Side
effects vary among users, but the most common ones include dizziness, abdominal pain,
insomnia, dry mouth, headache, heart palpitations, tremors, trouble breathing, loss of appetite,
and hyperactivity (Lakhan & Kirchgessner, 2012). More severe side effects associated with
chronic use include psychosis, tachycardia, myocardial infarction, and even sudden death
(Lakhan & Kirchgessner, 2012). The nonmedical use of prescription stimulants puts more users
at risk of dependency and potential health consequences, which is why nonmedical prescription
3
stimulant use should be addressed, especially in populations with high abuse rates, such as
college campuses.
Prescription Stimulants and College Campuses
The reputation of prescription stimulants as a “study drug” has led to high levels of abuse
on college campuses. The effects of increased energy, suppressed appetite, and increased focus
makes the use of stimulants attractive to college students for study purposes (Gallucci et al.,
2015). A study drug phenomena is happening on college campuses across the nation, with 29%
of college students using prescription stimulants non-medically (Busko, 2008; Varga, 2012).
College students feeling the pressure to succeed and maintain a social life, along with the high
accessibility to prescription stimulants and socio-cultural factors, such as growing up around
friends on prescription stimulants, often seek prescription stimulants (Varga, 2012). The pressure
to succeed is reflected in statistics that show students with lower grade point averages (GPAs)
are more likely to use prescription stimulants non-medically than students with higher GPAs
(Weyandt et al., 2009). The perception of prescription stimulants as “study drugs” increases the
demand, especially during testing periods (Lakhan & Kirchgessner, 2012). The misconception
that prescription stimulants do not have negative consequences and act as a miracle study drug
can lead to abuse and dependence, which can have detrimental impacts on not only one’s health
but also their academic career and life.
The increase in the amount of stimulants prescribed has made them more available to
college students who do not have their own prescription (Timmerman, n.d.). The National
College Health Assessment (NCHA) data found that almost two-thirds of college seniors have
been offered prescription stimulants for nonmedical use during the course of their college careers
and that upwards of 30% admit to using them at least once (Cutler, 2014). Students with a
4
prescription contribute to the extensive availability of prescription stimulants on college
campuses (Benson et al., 2015; Weyandt et al., 2013). When prescribed a stimulant, a limited
amount of drugs are allotted, yet many patients do not take their medication daily as is typically
prescribed (Liebrenz, Hof, Buadze, Stohler, & Eich, 2012). The excess medication leads to
individuals with valid prescriptions having excess medication, which combined with financial
incentives creates the inclination to sell any excess medication to their peers (Garnier et al.,
2010).
Living in close quarters with friends and peers who have a prescription for a stimulant,
such as in dorms or in the greek system, increases the availability and opportunity to buy
prescription stimulants for nonmedical use. Fraternities and sororities tend to have higher rates of
nonmedical prescription stimulant use because they are more accessible (Weyandt et al., 2009).
Culturally, prescription stimulants are not seen as dangerous or as having any negative side
effects (DeSantis et al., 2008). The living culture on college campuses provides easy and casual
access to prescription stimulants without considering possible consequences.
Considering that a large proportion college students are using prescription stimulants
non-medically, students may not be aware of the health and legal consequences of taking
prescription medication that is not prescribed to them. Prescription stimulants are a Schedule II
drug, meaning that they are a controlled substance with high potential for abuse. Possessing a
Schedule II drug without a valid prescription can lead to many legal ramifications, including
felony charges, jail time, and hefty fines under the Controlled Substances Act (TITLE 21 -
FOOD AND DRUGS, § CHAPTER 13 - DRUG ABUSE PREVENTION AND CONTROL,
1970). Being unaware of the consequences of nonmedical prescription stimulant use increases
the likelihood of engaging in risky behaviors or having negative health outcomes (Busko, 2008).
5
Purpose and Objectives
Prescription stimulant use has become a pervasive health concern on college campuses,
with a study drug phenomena on the rise. Nonmedical use of prescription stimulants puts users at
risk for dependence and potential health problems. A survey was used to determine the use and
perceptions of prescription stimulants amongst college students. The objective of this study is to
compare students’ use and perceptions of prescription stimulants with their demographic
information to discover any significant correlations. Surveying college students to better
understand their use of prescription stimulants can aid in selecting resources that should be
available on campus to help prevent future health issues that arise from prescription stimulant
abuse.
Methods
Participants
Undergraduate students at a public university in the Pacific Northwest voluntarily
participated in this survey. Of those who participated there were 11 males and 37 females. There
was a wide distribution of majors (see Table 1), but the majority of participants were upper
classmen (82%, n = 39) who lived off campus with roommates (83%, n = 40).
Instrumentation
The research self designed the instrument that contains three constructs with a total of 24
items, which tested students’ perceptions and use of prescription stimulants. Before the survey
started, participants were shown a consent form in which the purpose of this survey and
participants’ confidentiality were explained. The first construct of the survey consisted of five
items which asked about demographics. This includes class standing, living arrangement, GPA,
as well as gender. The next construct consisted of 9 items which surveyed the participants’
6
prescription stimulant usage. This included the reason prescription stimulants were taken, how
they were acquired, and the frequency of use. The third construct consisted of 10 items using the
Likert scale to measure the participants’ perception of prescription stimulants. This study was a
cross-sectional, convenience study because the survey was sent to fellow colleagues, friends, and
acquaintances, and data was collected at only this one point in time.
A preliminary pilot test was conducted in which the instrument was peer reviewed. The
survey was then redrafted and underwent a review once more before becoming final. A field test
was then conducted on the university students’ prescription stimulant use. To reach out to
participants a link to the Qualtrics survey was sent via email, text message, and Facebook of
students attending the university. Qualtrics is an anonymous survey platform that uses transport
layer security encryption.
Data Analysis
The International Business Machines Corporation (IBM) Statistical Package for the
Social Sciences (SPSS) statistical software was used to conduct multiple chi-square tests.
Qualtrics software coded survey responses directly into SPSS for analysis. Chi square tests were
used to compare descriptive statistics of grade point average (GPA) and prescription stimulant
use to identify any statistical significance. ANOVA and the chi-square tests were used to identify
significant associations between demographics and prescription stimulant use, and perceptions
and usage associations.
Results
Demographics
Out of all the participants 63% (n = 30) had taken a prescription stimulant, with 73% (n =
22) of those students reporting occasional (1-2 times a year) usage of prescription stimulants.
7
Although the majority of both males and females took a prescription stimulant, the males had a
greater percentage (81%, n = 9) compared to females (57%, n = 21) who took a prescription
stimulant. Regardless of GPA and major, the majority of students took prescription stimulants.
This was also true amongst class standings, with freshmen being an outlier (see Table 2). Of
those who participated in the survey, 68% (n = 31) were seniors and 83% (n = 40) of participants
lived off campus with roommates. A Chi square test revealed a significant association (X² =
0.039) of participants that lived off campus with roommates and took a prescription stimulant.
Usage
The reported reasons for taking prescription stimulants included approximately 11% (n =
3) ADD/ADHD, 79% (n = 22) studying, 4% (n = 1) dieting/weight loss, 4% (n = 1) to get high,
and 4% (n = 1) to be more social. All students agreed that prescription stimulants were effective
for their intended reason. Only four participants had a prescription and only three listed
ADD/ADHD as their primary reason. No one reported pretending to have ADD/ADHD to get
their prescription. One student reported taking their prescription as prescribed and three admitted
to selling their prescription. Of all the students who reported using a prescription stimulant, 70%
(n = 18) had also mixed with alcohol or other drugs.
Perceptions
A Chi square test indicated that there is a significant (X²= 0.029) association between the
perceptions of availability and if one had a prescription. 85% (n = 22) of students without a
prescription found it easy to obtain prescription stimulants compared to the 25% (n = 1) with a
prescription who found it difficult. Regardless of whether one sold their medication, everyone
who had a prescription felt pressured to sell. An ANOVA test on the association between
perceptions of legal repercussions and whether a participant sold their prescription stimulant
8
showed a nearly significant association (p=0.086). The ANOVA test on the association between
friendliness toward prescription stimulants and if one had ever taken a prescription stimulant was
not significant.
Discussion
These results show an indication that a high percentage of students use prescription
stimulants for nonmedical reasons. Similar to other studies, at this particular university a greater
percentage of males used prescription stimulants than females (CDC, 2015). Unlike the
literature, there was no difference in prescription stimulant usage based on GPA, showing a
popularity of drug use regardless of need to increase one’s grades. Previous studies have found
that the lower the GPA, the higher the usage (U.S. HHS, 2008; Weyandt et al., 2009). There
was a positive correlation between if a participant lived off campus and if they had ever taken a
prescription stimulant (X² = 0.039). The majority of the participants were seniors whom had also
taken a prescription stimulant. At this particular university most seniors also live off campus.
One can make a correlation between the significance of taking a prescription, living off campus,
and being a senior. Seniors may have been more likely to use a prescription stimulant as they feel
the academic pressure to graduate and have built up a social network that may be more
accessible to prescription stimulants (Varga, 2012).
The findings showed 63% (n = 30) of college students surveyed have used prescription
stimulants, while only 8% (n = 4) had a prescription. This leads one to wonder where the other
students are obtaining their prescription stimulants. Only one of the participants with a
prescription adhered to their prescription, leaving the three other students with a potential surplus
of medication; all three of these students admitted to selling their medication. An ANOVA test
proved a low perception of legal repercussions, which can help explain the willingness to pocket
9
extra money if there are no perceived consequences. This also provides an explanation for where
students without a prescription may be getting their prescription stimulants from. Individuals
who had a prescription perceived prescription stimulants to be less accessible compared to those
that did not. The significant association between the perception of availability and if one had a
prescription reflects how accessible prescription stimulants are without a prescription. One
explanation for this perception of accessibility is that students without a prescription have
established social networks to obtain stimulants, while those with a prescription have no need to
establish such networks and thus find it difficult to obtain stimulants elsewhere (Lakhan &
Kirchgessner, 2012). The high accessibility of prescription stimulants may lead to higher rates of
nonmedical use and pose risks that are often unknown.
The prevalence of nonmedical prescription stimulant use can be dangerous if students do
not know the possible harmful side-effects prescription stimulants, such as heart palpitations,
insomnia, trouble breathing, tachycardia, myocardial infarction, and even psychosis or sudden
death in prolonged use (Lakhan & Kirchgessner, 2012). This survey revealed that 70% (n = 21)
of students that have taken prescription stimulants had taken them in conjunction with other
drugs. The majority reported mixing with alcohol, followed by marijuana, and a few reported
mixing with other illicit drugs (e.g. cocaine, molly, ecstasy). Mixing with alcohol is often a
technique used to party longer because of the masking effects that stimulants have on depressants
such as alcohol.
Limitations
Since prescription stimulants are classified as a Schedule II drug, nonmedical use can be
a sensitive subject. The survey required participants to disclose illegal activity, therefore some
participants may not have felt comfortable providing honest information about their usage due to
10
fear of repercussions. Despite the survey being anonymous, the fear of repercussions could have
resulted in underreporting of illegal usage. Four people reported having a valid prescription, but
only three reported ADD/ADHD as their primary reason for the usage of prescription stimulants.
This caused the researchers to question if a participant pretended to have ADD/ADHD in order
to obtain a prescription to support their recreational use, due to the fact that ADD/ADHD is
usually the primary reason for stimulants to be prescribed (National Institute on Drug Abuse
[NIDA], 2014).
More logistical limitations include not having all the appropriate response choices for
questions 9 and 11. Question 9 did not have “not applicable” as an option when it would have
been appropriate (“I have felt pressure to sell my prescription stimulant”). Question 11 (“the
primary reason for prescription stimulant use”) did not have an “other” option, which forced
participants to choose from the options the researchers provided.
The survey was also distributed as a convenience sample through the researchers’ social
network via text, email, and Facebook. This limitation provides an explanation for the majority
of participants being female and upperclassmen. The convenience sample resulted in fewer male
participants, limiting the reliability of the males having a greater percentage of prescription
stimulant usage. This survey being a convenience sample and the low number of participants
(48) limits that this is an accurate representation of prescription stimulant usage at this
university.
Future action
To address prescription stimulant abuse on this university’s campus the researchers
shared the results with the Chemical Dependency Professional (CDP) on campus. One of the
researchers and the CDP combined their efforts to address the prescription stimulant abuse on
11
this university's campus in two ways. Firstly, a plan was formed to add more information about
prescription stimulants to the campus’s already offered Alcohol and Other Drug Consultation
and Assessment Services (ADCAS) classes. ADCAS classes briefly mentioned mixing
prescription stimulants and alcohol, but the CDP was concerned that the in-class portion
discussing prescription stimulants was too brief given that 86% (n = 18) of students who took
prescription stimulants reported using in conjunction with alcohol. Thus, information about what
happens physiologically and the potential risks of mixing were added to the course content.
Secondly, the researcher and CDP took action to include prescription stimulants to the substance
abuse screen for all students sanctioned by their dorms or local law enforcement to ADCAS
classes. Students will be asked about their usage of alcohol, marijuana, and now prescription
stimulants as well, in order to receive a more personalized ADCAS experience.
Sharing the results of this study with the campus CDP was a critical first step in tackling
the issue of prescription stimulant abuse on this particular campus, but it should not stop there.
Moving forward from this study, the researchers hope that the information collected will be used
to support efforts to address prescription stimulant abuse on college campuses.
References
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Busko, M. (2008, December 12). AAAP 2008: US College Students Abuse Stimulants More
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DeSantis, A. D., Webb E. M., & Noar, S. M. (2008). Illicit use of prescription ADHD
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Gallucci, R. A., & Martin, J. R. (2015). Misuse of prescription stimulant medication in a sample
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(2010). Sharing and selling of prescription medications in a college student sample. The
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(2014). Alcohol use, impulsivity, and the non-medical use of prescription stimulants
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15
Tables
Table 1
What is your major? * Have you ever taken a prescription stimulant? Crosstabulation
Have you ever taken a prescription stimulant
(Adderall, Vyvanse, Concerta, Ritalin, etc.)?
Total Yes No
What is your
major?
0 1 1
Behavioral neuroscience 1 0 1
Biochemistry 1 2 3
Biology with a Cellular/Molecular
Emphasis
1 0 1
Business management 0 1 1
Business 1 0 1
Business administration 0 1 1
Business marketing 1 0 1
Chemical engineering 1 0 1
Chemistry 1 0 1
Communication Studies 2 0 2
Communications 0 1 1
Community health 1 0 1
Community Health 3 2 5
16
Economics 1 0 1
Education 0 1 1
Geography 1 0 1
Geology 0 1 1
Human services 1 0 1
Industrial Design 1 0 1
Journalism 1 0 1
Kinesiology 2 0 2
Marketing 3 0 3
Math 0 1 1
MSCM 1 0 1
Nursing 0 1 1
Operations management 1 0 1
PE 0 1 1
Political Science 2 0 2
Psych 1 1 2
Psychology 0 1 1
Sociology 1 0 1
Sociology/Elementary Education 0 1 1
Undecided 1 2 3
17
Total 30 18 48
Note: Green is social sciences, Red is business, Blue is science, Black is other majors
Table 2
What is your class standing? * Have you ever taken a prescription stimulant ? Crosstabulation
Have you ever taken a prescription stimulant
(Adderall, Vyvanse, Concerta, Ritalin, etc.)?
Total Yes No
What is your class standing? Freshman 1 3 4
Sophomore 3 2 5
Junior 5 3 8
Senior 21 10 31
Total 30 18 48
Appendix
INSTRUMENT (rough draft)
Prescription Stimulant Usage and Perceptions
Introduction The purpose of this survey is to determine the usage and perceptions of prescription stimulant
use, both medically and non-medically, among college students. Prescription stimulants can
include Adderall, Vyvanse, Ritalin, Concerta, etc. Nonmedical use refers to using a drug that was
not prescribed to you or using your prescription in a way other than was instructed by your
doctor.
Participation is completely voluntary, there is no penalty if you choose not to participate and you
may discontinue participation at any time without loss. All of your answers will remain
anonymous and will be kept in a password protected file via a secure server.
The study consists of 20 questions and should take 5-10 minutes maximum. There are no right or
wrong answers. We will respect your views and responses. Every response you provide will be
kept completely confidential and anonymous.
18
Thank you for helping us with our study!
Goal of Study: To determine the usage and perceptions of prescription stimulant use amongst college students.
Objectives of Study: 1. To determine the relationship between demographics and prescription stimulant use.
2. To measure the correlation between usage and grade point average (GPA).
3. To measure the attitudes and perceptions of prescription stimulant use among college
students.
4. To understand the availability of prescription stimulants on a college campus.
Section One: Demographics
o What gender do you identify with?
Male
Female
Non-binary
Prefer not to answer
o What is your class standing?
Freshman
Sophomore
Junior
Senior
o What is your major?
Fill in blank
o What is your GPA
0.0-2.0
2.1-3.0
3.1-3.5
3.6-4.0
o Where do you live?
On-campus (dorms or apartments)
Off campus alone
Off campus with roommates
Section Two: Prescription Stimulant Usage
o Have you ever taken a prescription stimulant (adderall, vyvanse, concerta,
Ritalin)?
Yes
No
o If answered yes, how often?
Daily
Often (1+ times a week)
Sometimes (1-2 times a month)
Rarely (1-2 times a year)
Not applicable
o What method do you normally take prescription stimulants?
19
Orally (Pill)
Snort
Inject
Not applicable
o Do you have a prescription for your prescription stimulant?
Yes
No
o If you have a prescription, did you pretend to have ADD/ADHD to get your
prescription?
Yes
No
Not applicable
o If you have a prescription, have you sold/ given your medication to a peer?
Yes, I have sold
No, but I have felt pressured to sell
Never
Not applicable
o If you have a prescription, do you always take it as prescribed?
Yes
No
Not applicable
o What are your reasons for taking prescription stimulants? Please check all that
apply.
ADD/ADHD
Studying
Dieting/ Weight loss
To get high
Partying
To be more social
Other
Not applicable
o Have you taken prescription stimulants in conjunction with any of the following
substances? Please check all that apply.
Alcohol
Marijuana
Illicit drugs (e.g. cocaine, MDMA, ecstasy)
None
Not applicable
Section Three:
Please answer the following questions by clicking on the box that corresponds to whether you
agree or disagree with the statement given.
o When I take prescription stimulants, they are effective in assisting my intended
reason for taking them.
Strongly agree
Agree
20
Disagree
Strongly disagree
Not applicable
o I feel happier when I take prescription stimulants compared to when I don’t.
Strongly agree
Agree
Disagree
Strongly disagree
Not applicable
o I feel worse when I take prescription stimulants compared to when I don’t.
Strongly agree
Agree
Disagree
Strongly disagree
Not applicable
o Prescription stimulants are not harmful to my overall health.
Strongly agree
Agree
Disagree
Strongly disagree
Not applicable
o It is easy to obtain prescription stimulants without a prescription.
Strongly agree
Agree
Disagree
Strongly disagree
Not applicable
o I have felt pressure to sell my prescription stimulant -
Strongly agree
Agree
Neutral
Disagree
Strongly disagree
o It is likely to face legal repercussions by selling prescription stimulant drugs.+ Strongly agree
Agree
Disagree
Strongly Disagree
o It is likely to face legal repercussions for possessing prescription stimulant drugs.
+
Strongly agree
Agree
Disagree
Strongly disagree
o Prescription stimulants are not addictive. -
Strongly agree
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Agree
Disagree
Strongly disagree
o There are no negative side-effects from taking prescription stimulants (e.g.,
internal restlessness, insomnia, tremors, trouble breathing, abdominal pains, panic
attacks, dizziness). -
Strongly agree
Agree
Disagree
Strongly disagree
Not applicable
Thank you for taking our survey!
INSTRUMENT (final)
Prescription Stimulant Usage and Perceptions
Introduction: The purpose of this survey is to determine the usage and perceptions of prescription
stimulant use, both medically and non-medically, among college students. Prescription
stimulants can include Adderall, Vyvanse, Ritalin, Concerta, etc. Nonmedical use refers to using
a drug that was not prescribed to you or using your prescription in a way other than was
instructed by your doctor. Participation is completely voluntary; there is no penalty if you
choose not to participate and you may discontinue participation at any time without loss. All of
your answers will remain anonymous and will be kept in a password protected file via a secure
server. The study consists of 20 questions and should take 5-10 minutes maximum. There are no
right or wrong answers. We will respect your views and responses. Every response you provide
will be kept completely confidential and anonymous. Thank you for helping us with our study!
I agree to participate in this survey. (1)
I do not agree to participate in this survey. (2)
Condition: I do not agree to participa... Is Selected. Skip To: End of Survey.
22
What gender do you identify with?
Male (1)
Female (2)
Nonbinary (3)
Prefer not to answer (4)
What is your class standing?
Freshman (1)
Sophomore (2)
Junior (3)
Senior (4)
What is your major?
_______________________
What is your GPA?
0.0-2.0 (1)
2.1-3.0 (2)
3.1-3.5 (3)
3.6-4.0 (4)
Where do you live?
On campus (dorms or apartments) (1)
Off campus: alone (2)
Off campus: with roommates (3)
Have you ever taken a prescription stimulant (Adderall, Vyvanse, Concerta, Ritalin, etc.)?
Yes (1)
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No (2)
Not sure (3)
Condition: No Is Selected. Skip To: End of Block.Condition: Not sure Is Selected. Skip To: End
of Block.
Which of the following choices best describes your current prescription stimulant use?
Daily (1)
Often (1-4 times a week) (2)
Sometimes (1-2 times a month) (3)
Occasionally (1-2 times a year) (4)
What is your normal method of use for prescription stimulants?
Oral (pills/capsules) (1)
Nasal (snorting) (2)
Intravenous (injecting) (3)
Do you have a prescription for stimulants?
Yes (1)
No (2)
Condition: No Is Selected. Skip To: What is your primary reason for takin....
Did you pretend to have ADD/ADHD to obtain your prescription?
Yes (1)
No (2)
Have you ever sold your medication to a peer?
Yes, I have sold (1)
No, but I have felt pressured to sell (2)
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Never (3)
Do you always take your prescription stimulant as prescribed?
Yes (1)
No (2)
What is your primary reason for taking prescription stimulants?
ADD/ADHD (1)
Studying (2)
Dieting/weight loss (3)
To get high (4)
To be more social (5)
Other (6)
Have you taken prescription stimulants in conjunction with any of the following substances?
Check all that apply.
Alcohol (1)
Marijuana (2)
Illicit drugs (cocaine/Molly/ecstasy/etc.) (3)
Have never mixed (4)
Not applicable (5)
When I take prescription stimulants, they are effective in assisting my intended reason for taking
them.
Strongly agree (1)
Agree (2)
Disagree (3)
25
Strongly disagree (4)
Not applicable (5)
I feel happier when I take prescription stimulants compared to when I don't.
Strongly agree (1)
Agree (2)
Disagree (3)
Strongly disagree (4)
Not applicable (5)
I feel worse when I take prescription stimulants compared to when I don't.
Strongly agree (1)
Agree (2)
Disagree (3)
Strongly disagree (4)
Not applicable (5)
Prescription stimulants are not harmful to my overall health.
Strongly agree (1)
Agree (2)
Disagree (3)
Strongly disagree (4)
It is easy to obtain prescription stimulants without a prescription.
Strongly agree (1)
Agree (2)
Disagree (3)
26
Strongly disagree (4)
I have felt pressure to sell my prescription stimulant.
Strongly agree (1)
Agree (2)
Disagree (3)
Strongly Disagree (4)
It is likely to face legal repercussions by selling prescription stimulant drugs.
Strongly agree (1)
Agree (2)
Disagree (3)
Strongly disagree (4)
It is likely to face legal repercussions for possessing prescription stimulant drugs without a valid
prescription.
Strongly agree (1)
Agree (2)
Disagree (3)
Strongly disagree (4)
Prescription stimulants are not addictive.
Strongly agree (1)
Agree (2)
Disagree (3)
Strongly disagree (4)
27
There are no negative side effects from taking prescription stimulants (e.g. internal restlessness,
insomnia, tremors, trouble breathing, abdominal pains, panic attacks, dizziness).
Strongly agree (1)
Agree (2)
Disagree (3)
Strongly disagree (4)
