Attention Seeking Behavior and Drug Use

Indianapolis, IN

Previous research found that drug dependent individuals score higher on measures of histrionic personality disorder, a similar concept to attention seeking behavior, compared to a nondependent population. However, there is not consistent research on if people with attention seeking behavior are more likely to use certain drugs. This research utilizes online survey to clarify the relationship between attention seeking behavior and drug use. Participants from online fora and Amazon’s Mechanical Turk completed a survey on substances used, substance dependence, and attention seeking behaviors. This research tests the hypothesis that individuals high in attention seeking behavior will be more likely to use and be dependent on drugs, additionally they will also be polysubstance abusers. This research will contribute to a better understanding of individuals most at risk for drug use and dependence, and hopefully lead to better drug prevention and treatment.