Understanding Alcohol and Illicit Drug Use in Young College Students: A Qualitative Work from India Based on Social Norms Theory

Background and Objectives: Substance use among young college students in India poses public health challenges. This study seeks to uncover the motivation behind alcohol and illicit drug consumption, applying social norms theory. Methods: This qualitative research utilized the framework method to analyze data from 14 college students (18–24 years) across various disciplines. Participants were selected using purposive sampling to ensure diversity in demographics and perspectives. Data collection was conducted online. The study used a combination of in-depth interviews (n = 14) and focused group discussions (n = 2). We used AtLAS.ti to facilitate data analysis. We used a mixed inductive and deductive coding approach. A mind map was generated to visualize the complex interplay between social norms and other individual and external mediators. Results: We identified 10 themes, 20 subthemes, and 42 codes. The themes revealed descriptive (e.g., media and modernization) and injunctive (e.g., availability and legality) social norms that facilitate substance use and social disapproval and stigma that might deter young people from using substances. Family and institutional support were also found to play a protective role. The individuals also weigh the personal consequences (e.g., health and academic harm) and advantages (e.g., coping and relaxation) of substance use, which can influence their decision to use substances. Gendered norms and subtle differences in the social norms between alcohol and illicit drugs were also identified. Conclusion: Our study illuminates culturally tailored substance use prevention/intervention strategies that operate at the social, individual, and policy levels.