Substance use in individuals with mental retardation

Alcohol and drug use among individuals with mental retardation (MR) has received little empirical attention. Two studies are reported: In Study 1, individuals (n = 122) with MR were surveyed regarding their personality characteristics, alcohol and drug use, and skills to avoid substance abuse. Results indicate that although the majority of participants did not drink alcohol, among those who did, the ratio of misusers to users was nearly 1:1. In addition, misusers were deficient in specific skill areas. In Study 2, participants (n = 84) were randomly assigned to receive a prevention program in either (a) assertiveness building, (b) modeling and social inference, or (c) a delayed treatment, control condition. Results suggest that each program, at least in the short-term, improved substance knowledge and enhanced skills. Overall, these results suggest that substance use interventions focused toward individuals with MR may be beneficial.