Self-esteem and drug use. (News Briefs).

Drug Detection Report, November, 2002

Researchers at the University of Michigan have found that many college freshmen's methods for seeking self-esteem are harmful to their mental health, producing increased interpersonal stress and conflict and elevated levels of drug and alcohol use. Of the 600 students who were assessed according to their level of self-esteem -- their endorsement of seven common foundations of self-esteem (appearance, competition, approval of others, family support, virtue, religious faith and academic competence) -- the study found that those who based their esteem on approval showed more stress and anger and were more likely to have higher levels of drug and alcohol use.

Contact Jennifer Crocker, University of Michigan, (734) 615-3627. For more on the study, go to...

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