Keywords
illicit drug use; substance misuse; military personnel and veterans; drug risk perception; PTSD and trauma; public health
Abstract
This study investigates perceptions of illicit drug use and perceived drug misuse risks among individuals with military experience in the United States, highlighting how military service shapes attitudes toward substance misuse. Using data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), this research examines the influence of military status, combat exposure, PTSD, gender, and sociodemographic factors on perceptions of drug-related risk. Findings indicate that while most individuals perceive illicit drug use as highly risky, important differences exist among subpopulations, particularly female veterans, who are more likely to perceive lower levels of risk. The study explores how military culture, trauma exposure, and behavioral patterns contribute to these perceptions, drawing on the Health Belief Model and Social Learning Theory to contextualize results. These findings underscore the importance of culturally informed, gender-sensitive prevention and intervention strategies to address substance misuse in military and veteran populations, while also contributing to broader public health efforts aimed at reducing illicit drug use and improving mental health outcomes.
Thesis Completion Year
2026
Thesis Completion Semester
Spring
Thesis Chair
Lee, Yen-Han
College
College of Health Professions and Sciences
Department
Health Science
Thesis Discipline
Public Health
Language
English
Access Status
Open Access
Length of Campus Access
None
Campus Location
Orlando (Main) Campus
STARS Citation
Havlicek, Emilia, "Perceptions Of Illicit Drug Use And Perceived Drug Misuse Risks Among Individuals With Military Experience" (2026). Honors Undergraduate Theses. 649.
https://stars.library.ucf.edu/hut2024/649
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