Investigating the relationship between social support and personality factors with tobacco use among students
Journal of Behdasht dar Arseh (i.e., Health in the Field),
Vol. 13 No. 3 (1404),
10 June 2026
,
Page 19-27
https://doi.org/10.22037/jhf.v13i3.47973
Abstract
Background and Aims: Substance abuse is a major health, medical, and social issue in today’s world, and it can be confidently stated that all societies are affected by it to varying degrees. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between social support and personality factors and tobacco use among students of Golestan University of Medical Sciences.
Materials and Methods: This cross‑sectional study was conducted in 2024 among 115 students of Golestan University of Medical Sciences using a proportionate stratified sampling method. Data were collected using a demographic checklist, the standardized questionnaires including: (1) the NEO Five‑Factor Personality Inventory, (2) the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS), and a tobacco use checklist. Data analysis was performed using univariate and multivariate regression models, Pearson correlation, independent t‑test, and chi‑square test. A significance level of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Ethical considerations were observed throughout all stages of the study.
Results: Only the agreeableness trait (P= 0.027) and family support (P= 0.007) showed a significant relationship with tobacco use. A history of tobacco use in the family (β= 0.37) was identified as a predictor of tobacco use among students. Among personality traits and social support variables, agreeableness (β= 0.027) and family support (β= 0.021) were determined as significant predictors.
Conclusion: Given that students are classified as a high‑risk group due to separation from their family and social environments, addressing their needs both through family support and through providing appropriate educational and cultural environments in dormitories is essential.
- Family support
- Personality
- Social support
- Substance-related disorders
How to Cite
References
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