Current Research

The Relationship Between Substance Use, Nutrition, Academic Performance, and Interpersonal Factors

Our current research examines the interplay of various factors affecting health and well-being, focusing on:

1. Illicit Substance Usage

• Substances examined: ADHD medication misuse, Alcohol, Cannabis, Ecstasy, Hallucinogens, Amphetamines, Sedatives, Opiates and Cocaine

• Objective: To understand the prevalence, psychological effects, and lifestyle impacts of these substances, specifically in college students.

2. Nutrition

• Aspects studied: Frequency of meals, food choices, and feelings regarding weight

• Objective: To assess college students' nutrition habits and their impact on other lifestyle factors.

3. Academic Performance

• Aspect studied: Student performance, participation, and attentiveness in an academic setting

• Objective: To assess students academic practices and their relationship with other lifestyle factors 

4. Interpersonal Factors

• Aspects studied: Time management skills, perception of self, and social ties 

• Objective: To assess and analyze the relationship between interpersonal factors of individuals and possible correlations with other lifestyle choices 

Research Goals

Goals of our study are to:

• Expand our knowledge by reviewing scientific literature in our field

• Use the results and findings from our previous studies to inform the direction of our future research

• Disseminate our findings to the public 

• Provide healthy alternatives to substance use for college students

2025-26 APS and NCUR Abstracts

The Study Drug Epidemic: Associations Between Illicit Stimulant Use, Time Management Skills, and Academic Performance Among College Students 

Zachary Costanza, Elena Baldo, Dr. Lina Begdache

The illicit, or unprescribed use of stimulant medications such as Adderall, Ritalin, and Concerta has become an increasingly concerning issue on college campuses in the United States. The primary motivations surrounding illicit stimulant use among college students include academic enhancement, alertness, and improved levels of focus. These motivations stem from the beneficial effects of stimulants on individuals diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and prescribed the drug. While these factors may be extremely influential for students who illicitly use stimulants, a significant amount of research has shown that the effects of illicit stimulant use may be more harmful than beneficial towards these motivations. Many students who engage in counterproductive time management habits turn to stimulants as a way to improve these skills to subsequently enhance their academic performance. Examining illicit stimulant use and time management skills is crucial for understanding the effects of stimulant misuse and confuting the misconception that it will contribute to academic success. This study assesses the impact of illicit stimulant use on time management habits and academic performance. It is hypothesized that illicit stimulant usage is negatively correlated with productive time management skills and criteria of academic success. The study collected 1,410 responses, primarily from college students residing in North America. The anonymous, voluntary survey was created using Google Forms and distributed through various social media platforms and outreach campaigns. The study included self-reported data collected using validated scales: the Substances and Choices Scale (SACS), the Time Management Scale (TMS), and the Academic Performance Scale (APS). Data was analyzed in SPSS, Version 28.0, using Pearson’s Correlation Coefficient. A negative correlation was found between illicit stimulant usage and timely assignment completion (r=-0.182, p<0.01), managing schedule to study for exams (r=-0.077, p<0.01), and initiation of long-term assignments at the start of the semester (r=-0.126, p<0.01). Further, a negative correlation was found between illicit stimulants usage and class preparedness (r=-0.125, p<0.01), in-class attention span (r=-0.147, p<0.01), active participation in class (r=-0.072, p<0.05) and GPA (r=-0.108, p<0.01).  Our findings suggest that students who illicitly use stimulants are more likely to have counterproductive time management skills and poorer academic trends and performance. 

Associations Between Cannabis Consumption, Stability of Self-Perception, and Diet Quality

Gianna Gallo, Carolyn Ko, Lina Begdache 

Cannabis is one of the most frequently used substances by young adults both in the United States and worldwide. This trend raises alarm for the harmful, under explored habits associated with cannabis consumption and their effect on overall wellness. Frequent cannabis use leaves young adults vulnerable to dependency and exposed to health issues. For many young adults, especially college students, the transition into independence is a challenging developmental period marked by heightened stress, shifting responsibilities, and increased decision-making demands. Such stressful periods may further encourage cannabis use as a coping strategy, reinforcing patterns that affect other aspects of health. Frequency of cannabis use may impact self-perception and diet quality, which in turn affect mental and physical health. This study assesses the interrelatedness of cannabis use, stability of self-perception, and diet quality, to shed light on an ongoing problem that continues to shape the well-being and long-term health trajectories of young adults. It is hypothesized that frequent cannabis consumption is positively associated with greater variability in self-perception and poor diet quality. A total of 1409 participants, aged 18 years or older, participated in the study. The survey included questions on basic demographics, diet quality, perception of self, and cannabis use. Data collection was performed using an anonymous survey questionnaire via Google Forms. The research survey was distributed through Binghamton University outreach events, group chats, and various other social media platforms including but not limited to GroupMe, Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, and Yik Yak. Cannabis consumption was assessed using the Cannabis Use Disorder Test (CUDIT-R). The strength of self perception was assessed using The Self-Esteem Stability Scale (SESS). Diet quality was evaluated using the Food Mood Questionnaire (FMQ). Data was analyzed using Pearson Correlation Coefficient in SPSS version 28.0. The study revealed a positive correlation between frequent cannabis use and inconsistent perceptions of self (r = .210, p<.01). The data further showed a positive correlation between frequent cannabis consumption and poor diet quality (r = .158, p<.01) and a negative correlation between frequent cannabis consumption and strong diet quality (r = -.145, p<.01). Additionally, the results displayed a positive correlation between variable self perception and poor diet quality (r = .168, p<.01) and a negative correlation between consistent self perception and strong diet quality (r = -.081, p<.01), accentuating the interrelation of the two factors. These findings suggest that those who use cannabis are more likely to have a poor diet quality and fluctuations of self perception. By emphasizing the potential issues associated with frequent cannabis use, this study contributes to the evidence that frequent use can adversely impact both psychological and nutritional health. 

The Relationship Between Illicit Stimulant Use, Perceived Interpersonal Connections, and Academic Performance in College Students

Emma Hobel, Hera Khan, Georgi Hirschegger, Lina Begdache

Illicit stimulant use is an epidemic throughout the United States in college-aged students. These students are the majority of illicit stimulant users due to high stress levels, pressure to succeed, perceived competition among peers, and normalization. While students believe illicit stimulants will boost focus and GPA, research has shown that use is correlated with a lower GPA. This study examines relationships between illicit stimulant use, academic performance/preparedness, and interpersonal connections. It is hypothesized that illicit stimulant use is correlated with lower academic performance and weakened interpersonal connections. This survey study was conducted anonymously on Google Forms, and distributed through campus outreach and social media. Our study collected 1409 responses, mostly ages 18-29 in North/Central America. The study included self-reported data on substance use, interpersonal connections and academic performance. Illicit ADHD medication use was evaluated through the Substances and Choices Scale (SACS). Strength of social ties was assessed using The Social Connectedness Scale. Academic performance was evaluated using the Academic Performance Scale. The data was analyzed in SPSS, Version 28.0, using Pearson’s Correlation Coefficient. Illicit stimulant use is positively correlated with feeling distant from others (p<0.01). Negative correlations were found between initiating projects when assigned and illicit stimulant use (p<0.01) and between punctual assignment completion and illicit stimulant use (p<0.01). Ensuring preparedness in all subjects is negatively correlated with perceived lack of togetherness with peers (p<0.01). Results suggest that illicit stimulant users have worsened perception of their relationships with others and lower levels of academic preparedness. Those that feel less connected with their peers are less likely to have positive behaviors in academic performance. These results suggest a relationship between poor academic habits, weak interpersonal connections, and the illicit use of stimulants. 

The Relationship Between Alcohol Use, Dietary Habits, and Academic Productivity in College Students

Carolyn Ko, Elena Baldo, Zach Costanza, Gianna Gallo, Lina Begdache

Alcohol use is a prevalent concern among college students and may influence nutrition and academic engagement. Stress, social pressure, and irregular schedules can increase the disposition to alcohol consumption and contribute to unhealthy lifestyle patterns. Understanding how alcohol consumption relates to nutrient intake and academic functioning is essential for identifying factors that hinder student productivity. This study examined the relationship between alcohol use, dietary habits, and academic productivity among college-aged individuals. It was hypothesized that higher alcohol use is associated with less nutrient-dense diets and reduced academic engagement. A total of 1,409 participants aged 18 to 29, primarily from North and Central America, completed the AUDIT-C, Food Mood Questionnaire, and Academic Performance Scale through an anonymous Google Forms survey. Pearson’s Correlation Coefficient in SPSS Version 28.0 was used for statistical analysis. Significant relationships were found between alcohol use and dietary habits. Students who drank alcohol in the past year consumed sugary foods more frequently (r = 0.063, p < 0.05). Among those who drink, greater alcohol intake was associated with lower consumption of green leafy vegetables (r = -0.078, p < 0.05), fruits (r = -0.073, p < 0.05), fish or shellfish (r = -0.098, p < 0.01), and whole grains (r = -0.116, p < 0.01). Academic productivity also showed meaningful associations with alcohol use. Higher alcohol consumption was linked to reduced classroom attention (r = -0.120, p < 0.01), a lower likelihood of initiating long-term projects early (r = -0.120, p < 0.01), and to engaging in social activities rather than studying (r = 0.138, p < 0.01). Overall, these findings suggest that frequent alcohol use coincides with poorer nutrition and reduced academic engagement, emphasizing the need for campus strategies promoting healthier eating, reduced alcohol use, and academic motivation. 

Associations Between Strength of Social Ties, Academic Performance, and Use of Electronic Cigarettes 

Georgi Hirschegger, Emma Hobel, Hera Khan, Lina Begdache 

The use of electronic cigarettes is a major health crisis among young adults.  College students are vulnerable to nicotine addiction, as well as a myriad of medical issues as a result of vaping. Many young adults in college face immense pressure to succeed socially and academically. Once addicted to vaping, quitting requires a strong support network. Therefore, assessing the strength and presence of interpersonal relationships and their association with electronic cigarette use is important for understanding the risk factors. Evaluating the relationship between social health, use of electronic cigarettes, and academic performance can reveal potential motivations for such unhealthy behavior.  This study aims to evaluate the interrelation between unhealthy habits, social health, academic performance, and electronic cigarette use.  It is hypothesized that a lack of strong social ties is positively associated with the use of electronic cigarettes and poor academic performance.  The study received 1409 responses, primarily from those ages 18 to 29 in North and Central America.  The study included self-reported data on nicotine use, academic performance, and social ties collected via an anonymous Google Forms survey distributed through social media platforms. Nicotine use and vaping were assessed using the Penn State [Electronic] Cigarette Dependence Index.  The strength of social ties was assessed using the Social Connectedness Scale. Academic performance was evaluated using the Academic Performance Scale.  Data was analyzed in SPSS Version 28.0, using Pearson’s Correlation Coefficient.  Negative correlations were found between vaping habits and good academic habits. A negative correlation was found between awakening at night to use an electronic device and paying attention and listening during class discussion (r=-0.242. p<0.01).  Use of electronic cigarettes due to difficulty quitting was found to be negatively associated with enjoying homework and school activities for academic improvement (r=-0.216.  p<0.01).  Further, positive correlations were found between weak social ties and nicotine use, with the strength of cravings for electronic cigarettes being positively associated with feeling a lack of belonging, even among people one already knows (r=0.176. p<0.01).  A positive correlation was also found between the presence of cravings to use an electronic cigarette and feeling disconnected from the world (r=0.208. p<0.01).  Feeling that one has no sense of togetherness with peers was negatively correlated with being ready in all subjects (r=-0.254. p<0.01). Our findings suggest that those who use electronic cigarettes are more likely to have poor academic habits and are also more likely to feel less connected socially.  Additionally, those who feel disconnected from their peers and society are less likely to have healthy academic behaviors. This suggests a relationship among weaker social ties, poor academic habits, and electronic cigarette use.