Patterns of substance use and predictors of class membership among university male students: a latent class analysis

Background This study aimed to identify latent classes of substance use and predictors of class membership. Methods This cross-sectional study was performed on 1894 Students. The sample was selected through multi-stage sampling from four universities. Latent class analysis was performed to achieve the study objectives. Results Three latent classes were identified; 1) non-user (68.1%), 2) sedative-hypnotic drug user (29.4%), and 3) polydrug user (2.5%%). Low self-esteem and low self-efficacy increased the odds of membership in sedative-hypnotic drug user and polydrug user compared to non-user class. Age (OR = 1.29), self-injury (OR = 1.93), having a physical fight (OR = 9.25), low self-esteem (OR = 1.88), and low self-efficacy (OR = 5.28) are associated with polydrug user class. Conclusion Focusing on enhancing self-efficacy and self-esteem with considering other related factors may help design and execute effective programs to reduce substance use among students.