Case Control Studies, Essay Example

This study aimed to determine the early life influences on individuals who inject drugs. A major advantage of this study is that a large sample size was used, and that one case was assigned to each control. On the other hand, this may have impacted the ability of the researchers to randomize these two groups. Therefore, there is potential bias involved as a consequence of this study design, which is a major weakness. Ultimately, the study aimed to identify many variables that would allow healthcare professionals to gain a greater understanding of the factors that cause drug use, which is a strength. It appears that all relevant variables were examined for this purpose.

The study found that the two factors that would most likely lead to drug use include not living with both parents in addition to early conduct problems. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHS), individuals that grew up with only one or neither parent are more likely to become involved in drug use and other negative behaviors. Therefore, prior research confirms the findings of the study. This discovery aligns with my expectations, because based on the information I have read on this topic, it seems that individuals that do not feel that they have adequate support from friends and family end up using drugs. This is ultimately because drugs make them feel better and they fall into communities with other drug users that make them feel that they have the support they need. While this is an unfortunate consequence, understanding these types of studies will allow psychologists to determine the best ways to treat these types of patients. It is therefore likely that research will continue to be conducted on this topic.