Cognitive functioning of solvent abusers.

Cognitive dysfunction and solvent abuse have been found to be closely related, but the precise nature of this relationship remains obscure. Twenty eight non-active solvent abusing and 20 non-abusing adolescents were given tests of non-verbal and verbal intelligence, arithmetic, literacy level and learning ability. In addition, they were asked three standard questions about their spare time activities and future orientation. The results clearly indicated that, while the two groups did not significantly differ in potential abilities, the abusers performed significantly poorly on all but one test of acquired abilities. The abusers were found to be less future orientated, were 'bored' with themselves. The aetiological implications of the study are discussed.