Abstract

Purpose in life and coping skills are hypothesized to mediate the association between cognitive abilities (e.g., fluid and crystallized intelligence) and poly drug use (alcohol, cigarettes, cannabis, illicit drugs). Self-report, cross-sectional data were obtained from a community sample of 144 junior high and high school students, 12 to 17 years old. Structural model results indicated that the relationship between crystallized intelligence and alcohol use was mediated by purpose in life. In addition, older age predicted higher cognitive abilities, stronger coping strategies, more poly drug use, and less purpose in life. Cognitive abilities predicted less cigarette and illicit drug use; existential confusion predicted more illicit drug use; and cognitive approach skills predicted more poly drug use. The implications of these findings are discussed.