Researchers find that drug use can lead to difficulties in facial expression recognition

A recent study from the University of Granada shows that individuals who abuse drugs may have difficulties in identifying negative emotions in the facial expressions of others.

Facial expressions that represent anger, disgust, fear and sadness were found to be difficult to discern for drug abusers. Researchers said that regular marijuana, cocaine or alcohol abuse also affects a person's fluency and decision-making.

The study revealed that 70 percent of drug abusers showed signs of some form of neuropsychological deterioration, regardless of what type of drug was used. Participants showed reduced levels of working memory, flexibility, planning and multitasking ability.

The study found that the use of marijuana can negatively impact a person's working memory. Furthermore, cocaine abuse may be associated with changes in inhibitions.

Researchers said that these findings could help aid rehab programs by allowing them to adapt to the individual's neuropsychological profile to provide specific treatment.

According to the 2009 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, an estimated 21.8 million Americans age 12 and older currently use illicit drugs.