A Path Analysis Study on the Influence of Social Norms on Substance Use Severity: Focusing on People Who Use Cannabis, Narcotics, and Psychotropic Substances in South Korea

This study investigates the effects of social norms on substance use severity mediated by health beliefs among people who use cannabis, narcotics, and psychotropic substances in Republic of Korea. A survey was administered to 109 people who use cannabis and narcotics and 191 people who use psychotropic substances between May and July 2024. Path analysis was conducted. The findings indicated that the effects of social norms on health beliefs and the impact of health beliefs on substance use severity were statistically significant among people who use psychotropic substances, whereas no such significance was observed among people who use cannabis and narcotics. We recommend implementing early intervention treatment and social rehabilitation programs tailored to the specific needs and severity of substance use in people who use psychotropic substances, cannabis, and narcotics in Republic of Korea. Additionally, the establishment of online platforms to disseminate information on harm reduction, prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation based on substance type is advocated.