Project – Knowledge and Attitude of Adolescent towards Substance Abuse in Public Secondary Schools in Choba, Rivers State.

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

• Background to the Study

Substance abuse among adolescents remains a critical public health concern globally, with detrimental effects on the physical, psychological, and social development of young people. The adolescent years are characterized by a quest for identity, social acceptance, and the exploration of various risk behaviors, including substance use. A study by Ajayi (2021) highlighted the increasing prevalence of drug use among Nigerian adolescents, with an alarming number of students in secondary schools engaging in substance abuse. These behaviors are often influenced by factors such as peer pressure, family environment, availability of substances, and lack of adequate knowledge about the dangers associated with drug use. Understanding the knowledge and attitudes of adolescents towards substance abuse in public secondary schools is crucial for developing preventive strategies and interventions.

The knowledge of adolescents about substance abuse plays a significant role in shaping their attitudes and behaviors. Research has shown that many adolescents lack sufficient information about the harmful effects of substances such as alcohol, tobacco, and illicit drugs. A study conducted by Olayemi and Akinmoladun (2020) in Ogun State found that while most adolescents were aware of the physical and psychological dangers of substance abuse, their knowledge was often superficial or based on hearsay rather than factual understanding. Similarly, in Choba, Rivers State, adolescents may have some awareness of the risks associated with drug use, but this knowledge may not always translate into protective behaviors. This lack of comprehensive knowledge may contribute to the persistence of substance abuse in secondary schools.

Attitudes towards substance abuse are often influenced by social norms, peer pressure, and environmental factors. A study by Sulaimon et al. (2020) revealed that adolescents who perceived drug use as a norm in their social circles were more likely to engage in substance abuse themselves. Peer pressure, the desire to fit in, and the glorification of drug use in popular media were identified as significant factors that shaped their attitudes. Adolescents in Choba, like their counterparts elsewhere in Nigeria, may view substance use as a means of gaining acceptance or enhancing social status, particularly among male students. These attitudes, coupled with limited parental supervision and guidance, may further exacerbate the prevalence of substance abuse in secondary schools.

In addition to peer influence, family dynamics play a crucial role in the attitudes of adolescents toward substance use. Studies have shown that adolescents who experience neglect, inconsistent parenting, or substance abuse within the family are more likely to adopt risky behaviors, including substance abuse (Oduwole & Adeyemo, 2018). In Choba, many families may face economic and social challenges, which can strain family relationships and increase the likelihood of adolescents engaging in substance use as a coping mechanism. The lack of open communication and preventive education about substance abuse within the family setting further compounds the problem. Therefore, it is essential to address both individual and familial factors when developing interventions to prevent substance abuse among adolescents.

Furthermore, the school environment plays a significant role in shaping the knowledge and attitudes of adolescents toward substance abuse. Educational institutions are important venues for delivering drug prevention programs that can equip students with accurate knowledge and foster positive attitudes toward substance use. A study by Bakare and Ojo (2022) demonstrated that school-based drug education programs could significantly reduce the incidence of substance abuse among adolescents. However, the effectiveness of such programs often depends on the quality of the content, the training of educators, and the extent to which the programs are integrated into the broader school curriculum. In Choba, public secondary schools may face challenges related to limited resources, inadequate training for teachers, and lack of support from local health authorities, which can undermine the impact of preventive education efforts.

Furthermore, while adolescents in public secondary schools in Choba, Rivers State, may have some awareness of substance abuse, their attitudes are often shaped by external influences such as peer pressure, family background, and social norms. It is essential to provide comprehensive education that addresses the risks associated with substance abuse and promotes healthy behaviors. Preventive strategies should involve collaboration among schools, families, and communities to create a supportive environment that discourages drug use and encourages adolescents to make informed decisions. Future research should focus on exploring the specific factors contributing to substance abuse in this region, as well as evaluating the effectiveness of school-based interventions in preventing substance abuse among adolescents.

1.2. Statement of the Problem

Substance abuse among adolescents has become a growing concern in many parts of Nigeria, with serious consequences for the health, social, and academic development of young people. In Choba, Rivers State, public secondary schools have witnessed an increasing trend of adolescents engaging in the use of alcohol, tobacco, and illicit drugs. Despite the widespread awareness of the harmful effects of substance abuse, many adolescents continue to engage in these risky behaviors, often without fully understanding the long-term consequences. This situation poses significant challenges for educators, parents, and healthcare providers who seek to prevent and mitigate the impact of substance abuse on young people in the community.

A significant gap exists in the understanding of how much knowledge adolescents in Choba have regarding the risks and consequences of substance abuse. Although various public health campaigns and educational programs have been implemented, it remains unclear whether these efforts have effectively reached the target population of secondary school students. The lack of detailed research on the level of knowledge about substance abuse in this region leaves a crucial gap in designing targeted intervention strategies. Inadequate knowledge may contribute to misconceptions about substance use, leading to increased experimentation and eventual dependence among adolescents. It is essential to assess whether the knowledge students possess about substance abuse is both accurate and comprehensive.

In addition to knowledge, the attitudes that adolescents hold towards substance abuse significantly influence their behavior. Many adolescents in Choba, like their peers across Nigeria, may perceive drug use as socially acceptable or even glamorous, often due to peer pressure or societal norms that glamorize substance use. This negative attitude toward drug use is compounded by the pressures adolescents face to fit into peer groups or to deal with personal and academic challenges. These attitudes can further exacerbate the problem, making adolescents more likely to initiate substance use. It is crucial to understand the factors that shape these attitudes and whether they contribute to the rising rates of substance abuse among secondary school students in Choba.

The school environment, which plays a pivotal role in the development of adolescents, is another important factor in shaping both knowledge and attitudes toward substance abuse. Schools in Choba may face challenges in effectively addressing substance abuse, such as insufficient resources for health education, lack of specialized training for teachers, and inadequate support systems for students dealing with substance abuse issues. Additionally, the effectiveness of existing school-based programs aimed at preventing substance use may be compromised by the lack of engagement or interest among students. Therefore, understanding how secondary schools in Choba are addressing substance abuse and evaluating the effectiveness of these programs is necessary to improve intervention efforts.

The family environment is another key factor that may influence adolescent behavior concerning substance abuse. Research has shown that adolescents from homes where there is a history of substance abuse or poor parental supervision are at a higher risk of engaging in substance use themselves. In Choba, the socio-economic challenges faced by many families may further contribute to adolescents seeking comfort or escape in substances. The lack of proper parental guidance and support, coupled with the absence of open communication about the dangers of substance abuse, may increase adolescents’ vulnerability. Thus, the role of family dynamics and the influence of parental attitudes toward substance use require careful investigation.

Finally, addressing the problem of substance abuse among adolescents in Choba requires a multifaceted approach that involves not only improving knowledge and changing attitudes but also fostering supportive environments both at home and in schools. The lack of comprehensive and localized research on the knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors of adolescents in Choba, specifically in relation to substance abuse, necessitates a focused study to inform future public health policies and school-based interventions. By better understanding the interplay between knowledge, attitudes, and environmental factors, it will be possible to design more effective programs that can reduce the prevalence of substance abuse and promote healthier lifestyles among adolescents in the region.

1.3. Aim and Objectives of the Study

The aim of the study is to examine the Knowledge and Attitude of Adolescent towards Substance Abuse in Public Secondary Schools in Choba, Rivers State. The specific objectives are:

1. To assess the level of knowledge among adolescents in public secondary schools regarding substance abuse.
2. To examine the attitudes of adolescents towards substance abuse in public secondary schools.
3. To identify the factors influencing adolescent knowledge and attitudes towards substance abuse.
4. To explore the potential impact of educational interventions on adolescent knowledge and attitudes towards substance abuse in public secondary schools.

1.4. Research Questions

The research questions are buttressed below:

1. What is the level of knowledge among adolescents in public secondary schools regarding substance abuse?
2. What are the attitudes of adolescents towards substance abuse in public secondary schools?
3. What factors influence adolescent knowledge and attitudes towards substance abuse?
4. What is the potential impact of educational interventions on adolescent knowledge and attitudes towards substance abuse in public secondary schools?

1.5. Research Hypothesis

The hypothetical statement of the study is buttressed below:

Ho: Educational interventions have no effect on adolescent knowledge and attitudes towards substance abuse in public secondary schools

H1: Educational interventions have effect on adolescent knowledge and attitudes towards substance abuse in public secondary schools

1.6. Significance of the Study

The significance of this study lies in its potential to contribute to the understanding of the factors influencing substance abuse among adolescents in public secondary schools in Choba, Rivers State. By exploring the knowledge and attitudes of adolescents toward substance abuse, the study will provide valuable insights into the perceptions and understanding that students have about the risks associated with substance use. This information is essential for informing the design and implementation of targeted intervention programs that aim to prevent substance abuse among young people in the region. Addressing the root causes of adolescent substance abuse is crucial for ensuring the well-being and future prospects of these students.

Understanding the level of knowledge that adolescents in Choba possess about substance abuse will help identify the gaps in their awareness and misconceptions about the risks and consequences of drug use. Many adolescents engage in substance abuse due to a lack of adequate information or because they do not fully comprehend the long-term effects of drug use on their health, relationships, and academic performance. By examining the existing knowledge base among students, this study can highlight specific areas where educational interventions are needed. For instance, if the findings reveal that students are not aware of the psychological or legal implications of substance abuse, targeted educational campaigns can be developed to address these issues.

The study’s investigation into adolescents’ attitudes toward substance abuse is equally significant. Attitudes often dictate behaviors, and understanding how adolescents perceive substance use will provide important insights into why some may engage in drug use despite knowing the potential harms. For example, some adolescents may perceive substance use as a rite of passage, a means of fitting in with peers, or as a coping mechanism for stress. By identifying these attitudes, the study can assist in the development of strategies that focus on changing the cultural and social perceptions that may normalize substance use. This can, in turn, reduce the prevalence of substance abuse and its associated negative effects on adolescents.

The findings of this study will also be valuable for educators and school administrators in Choba, as they can directly inform the development of school-based programs aimed at preventing substance abuse. Schools are among the most important settings for educating adolescents about health risks, but many school programs are not tailored to the specific needs and realities of the students they serve. By understanding the knowledge gaps and attitudes of students, this research can guide the design of more effective drug education programs that resonate with students, increase their engagement, and ultimately lead to better prevention outcomes. Schools that adopt evidence-based strategies are more likely to reduce the occurrence of substance abuse among their students.

From a policy perspective, the study can provide important data that will support the creation of informed public health policies and community-based interventions aimed at reducing adolescent substance abuse in Choba. Policymakers can use the study’s results to assess the effectiveness of current anti-substance abuse programs in the region and to identify areas for improvement. Additionally, the study can highlight the need for stronger collaborations between schools, families, healthcare providers, and local government authorities in addressing substance abuse. By equipping these stakeholders with data-driven insights, the study can foster a more coordinated and holistic approach to tackling substance abuse.

Finally, the study’s significance extends beyond Choba, as its findings can serve as a model for similar communities in Rivers State and other regions of Nigeria facing similar challenges. By examining how knowledge and attitudes towards substance abuse impact behavior in public secondary schools, the research can contribute to a broader understanding of adolescent substance use in the Nigerian context. The results can be shared with other educational institutions, healthcare organizations, and local governments, enabling them to adapt successful strategies to their unique environments. Furthermore, this study can contribute to the global discourse on adolescent substance abuse prevention by adding a local Nigerian perspective to existing literature, highlighting culturally relevant factors that may affect youth behavior.

1.7. Scope of the Study

The study examines the knowledge and Attitude of Adolescent towards Substance Abuse in Public Secondary Schools in Choba, Rivers State.

1.8. Operational Definition of Terms

Knowledge: Knowledge refers to the understanding, awareness, and information that an individual possesses about a particular subject or phenomenon. It involves the facts, concepts, and insights that are acquired through learning, education, or experience. In the context of this study, knowledge refers to the extent to which adolescents in public secondary schools are informed about substance abuse, its causes, consequences, and prevention methods. The depth and accuracy of their understanding can significantly influence their behavior and decisions regarding substance use.

Attitude: Attitude refers to an individual’s feelings, beliefs, or predispositions toward a particular object, person, or issue. It involves both cognitive (thoughts), emotional (feelings), and behavioral (actions) components. In the context of adolescent substance abuse, attitude encompasses how adolescents perceive and respond to the concept of substance use. It includes their beliefs about the risks and benefits, their emotional responses (e.g., approval or disapproval), and how these views may influence their decisions to either engage in or avoid substance use.

Adolescent: An adolescent is a young person in the developmental stage between childhood and adulthood, typically ranging from the ages of 10 to 19 years. This period is characterized by significant physical, emotional, and psychological changes as individuals transition from dependence on their parents or caregivers to greater independence. Adolescence is also a time when individuals begin to form their identities, make important life decisions, and explore various social behaviors, including risk-taking behaviors like substance use.

Substance Abuse: Substance abuse refers to the harmful or hazardous use of psychoactive substances, including alcohol, tobacco, prescription drugs, and illicit drugs. It is characterized by a pattern of behavior in which an individual repeatedly consumes substances in a way that causes harm to their physical health, mental well-being, relationships, or social functioning. Substance abuse often leads to addiction or dependence, where the individual feels compelled to continue using the substance despite the negative consequences. In adolescents, substance abuse can hinder academic performance, emotional development, and overall life satisfaction.

Public Secondary Schools: Public secondary schools are educational institutions that provide secondary or high school education to students, typically between the ages of 12 and 18, and are funded and managed by the government. These schools offer a broad curriculum designed to prepare students for higher education or the workforce. Public secondary schools are open to all students within a specific geographical area and are typically free or low-cost. They play a vital role in the social, intellectual, and emotional development of adolescents and serve as critical settings for addressing issues like substance abuse through education, counseling, and community programs.

Project – Knowledge and Attitude of Adolescent towards Substance Abuse in Public Secondary Schools in Choba, Rivers State.