Character Strengths that Prevent Substance Use in Mexican University Students

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.15517/ap.v39i139.59887

Keywords:

Positive Psychology, character strengths, substance use, university students, robust regression

Abstract

Objective. Identify character strengths that predict non-substance use. Method. Quantitative study with a cross-sectional research design. For data collection, the Spanish version of the VIA-120 Inventory of Strengths Questionnaire was used. To measure substance use, a six-question questionnaire was used regarding the use of alcohol, tobacco, electronic cigarettes, marijuana, non-prescription medication to stay focused or alert, and any illegal drugs. The application was electronical. The sample was non-probabilistic of 569 participants, with an average age of 21.2 years (SD = 2.30). 35.3% were men and 64.7% women. The participants gave their informed consent. A robust regression was performed with the RStudio program. Results. Two character strengths were predictors of non-consumption of substances: Self-regulation and Spirituality.

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Published

2025-12-30

How to Cite

Sánchez Hernández, M. E., Arguelles Bustamante, M. de J., Barba von Bertrab, A., Lasso Ahedo, A., Uranga Castillejos, N., & Zenteno Osés, M. (2025). Character Strengths that Prevent Substance Use in Mexican University Students. Actualidades En Psicología, 39(139), 133-149. https://doi.org/10.15517/ap.v39i139.59887