Education Commons^™

Psychostimulant Use Among Undiagnosed College Students: Revealing Perceptions Anddebunking The Myth Of Cognitive Benefits, Rebecca Elizabeth Shait

Honors Theses

Previous research suggests there is a rising trend of non-medical psychostimulant use on college campuses. The current study examined the prevalence of non-medical psychostimulant use, assessed students’ motivations and perceptions of the cognitive and emotional benefits, and attempted to influence their views by giving them real scenarios where psychostimulants are not effective for individuals without ADHD. Results revealed that there is a prevalence of non-medical psychostimulant use at Union College. Non-medical psychostimulant users had a more positive perception that these medications enhance performance, cognition, memory, mood/energy, and motivation to start and complete work. There were no significant interactions or differences …