Scott Bowen
A household solvent commonly used by adolescents in “glue sniffing” may be more dangerous than previously thought, according to a study by Scott Bowen, associate professor of psychology. Bowen is studying toluene, an inhalant known to have drug-like effects. Found in glues, paint removers, varnishes and other common household items, toluene is often the first drug abused by adolescents because it is inexpensive, easy to find and legal. Though toluene has long been classified as a depressant, Bowen’s study adds to other recent findings that it also induces stimulant-like effects.