Reasons for using inhalants: evidence for discrete classes in a sample of incarcerated adolescents.

The use and abuse of inhalants continue to be among the most pernicious, curious, and least understood of drug use behaviors. The purpose of this study was to identify specific subgroups of adolescents based on their reasons for using inhalants. Data regarding reasons for using inhalants were examined using latent profile analysis. A three-class solution exhibited the best fit with the data. Although validation analysis revealed that the classes did not differ on demographic characteristics, classes exhibited significant differences across numerous clinical measures, including anxiety, problems associated with using substances, global symptom severity, and number of different types of inhalants used. Results indicate heterogeneity for reasons for use of inhalants and associated psychological distress. Findings may provide clues to future taxonomic development of inhalant abuse phenomena and prevention.