Why are smart kids more likely to do drugs?
“Taking LSD was a profound experience, one
of the most important things in my life.” — Steve Jobs
of the most important things in my life.” — Steve Jobs
Studies show a correlation between high childhood IQs and getting high
There is plenty of anecdotal evidence that a relationship exists between intelligence and drug use. Some of the greatest thinkers, artists, and musicians openly used illegal substances. Steve Jobs and Bill Gates both admitted to taking LSD in their youth, and Sigmund Freud and Thomas Edison were avid cocaine users.
Now there is mounting scientific evidence of a correlation between genius and getting high as well.
Using data from the 1958 National Child Development Study, researchers published areport last year (PDF) that found children with higher IQs were more likely to use illegal drugs later in life. The study surveyed 17,416 people, expanding on 2011 findings that also indicated that smarter children were significantly more likely than those with lower IQs to use drugs as teens or young adults.
So why do smart kids end up using drugs? James White, the 2011 study’s lead author, believes it has to do with educated decision-making. Research shows that children with higher IQs are more likely to eat well and lead active lifestyles, and less likely to smoke