Project – Impacts of drug abuse and its consequences on moral behaviour of secondary school students.

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

• Background to the Study

The issue of drug abuse among secondary school students has been a growing concern for educators, parents, and policymakers. Numerous studies have explored the multifaceted impacts of drug abuse on adolescents, particularly focusing on how it affects their moral behavior. According to a study by Johnston et al. (2018), drug abuse during adolescence can lead to significant alterations in moral reasoning and ethical decision-making. This is primarily because the adolescent brain is still developing, and exposure to drugs can interfere with the normal maturation process, leading to impaired judgment and a diminished capacity to distinguish right from wrong.

 

One of the primary consequences of drug abuse is its impact on students’ academic performance and school engagement. Research by Henry et al. (2017) indicates that students who engage in drug use are more likely to experience a decline in academic performance, increased absenteeism, and a higher likelihood of dropping out of school. This disengagement from the educational environment can further exacerbate moral and ethical lapses, as students become more isolated from positive role models and structured environments that promote moral development.

 

Furthermore, drug abuse can lead to an increase in antisocial behavior among secondary school students. A study by Sussman and Ames (2018) found that adolescents who abuse drugs are more likely to engage in activities such as theft, vandalism, and violence. These behaviors not only reflect a deterioration in moral standards but also contribute to a negative school climate, affecting the overall well-being of the student body. The normalization of such behaviors can create a cycle of moral decay, where students are influenced by peers who also engage in drug use and related activities.

 

The family environment plays a crucial role in shaping the moral behavior of adolescents, and drug abuse can severely disrupt family dynamics. According to research by Brook et al. (2012), students who abuse drugs often come from families with a history of substance abuse, lack of supervision, or poor communication. These factors can lead to a breakdown in moral guidance and support, leaving students more vulnerable to making unethical choices. The absence of a stable family structure can also lead to a lack of accountability, further diminishing the student’s ability to adhere to societal moral standards.

 

Peer influence is another significant factor in the relationship between drug abuse and moral behavior. Adolescents are highly susceptible to peer pressure, and those who associate with peers who use drugs are more likely to adopt similar behaviors. A study by Simons-Morton et al. (2017) highlights the role of peer networks in shaping moral attitudes and behaviors. When drug use becomes a norm within a peer group, students may feel compelled to conform, even if it contradicts their personal moral beliefs. This peer-driven moral shift can have long-lasting effects on their ethical development.

 

The impacts of drug abuse on the moral behavior of secondary school students are profound and multifaceted. The interplay between cognitive development, academic engagement, family dynamics, and peer influence creates a complex web of factors that can lead to moral deterioration. Addressing these issues requires a comprehensive approach that involves educators, parents, and the community working together to provide support, education, and intervention strategies. By fostering environments that promote healthy development and ethical decision-making, it is possible to mitigate the negative consequences of drug abuse on adolescents’ moral behavior.

 

• Statement of the Problem

Drug abuse among secondary school students has become a growing concern worldwide, with far-reaching consequences for both individuals and society. The use of illicit substances, including alcohol, tobacco, and recreational drugs, is prevalent among adolescents, and its impact on their moral behavior cannot be overlooked. Secondary school students, in particular, are at a crucial stage of development, where they are forming their identities and values. Drug abuse can significantly alter their perceptions, decision-making abilities, and overall moral compass. This problem requires immediate attention to understand the extent to which substance abuse is influencing the ethical behavior of young people in educational environments.

Drug abuse leads to various behavioral and cognitive changes in adolescents, often resulting in poor decision-making, emotional instability, and a lack of empathy. When students engage in drug use, they may become desensitized to the consequences of their actions and demonstrate a disregard for societal norms and values. This shift in behavior can manifest in school misconduct, such as cheating, lying, bullying, or engaging in violent behavior. In addition to this, substance abuse can impair academic performance, which in turn can lead to a decrease in motivation and self-esteem. As a result, students’ moral development is undermined, and they may fail to grasp the importance of responsibility, integrity, and ethical behavior.

The family unit and social environment play critical roles in shaping the moral foundation of adolescents. However, when drug abuse infiltrates these systems, it can disrupt positive role modeling and lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms among students. Some adolescents may be exposed to substance abuse within their homes or peer groups, normalizing this behavior and undermining their understanding of right and wrong. These environmental influences, coupled with the immediate effects of drugs on the brain, contribute to the moral decline observed in students who abuse substances. Without proper guidance and intervention, students may struggle to regain their ethical bearings, further escalating the problem.

Moreover, drug abuse also poses significant health risks, which can have long-lasting effects on the mental, physical, and emotional well-being of students. Chronic drug use can result in psychological disorders such as anxiety, depression, and paranoia, further exacerbating behavioral issues. These mental health challenges can prevent students from engaging in moral reasoning and understanding the consequences of their actions. Additionally, students who are frequently under the influence of drugs may find it difficult to form meaningful relationships, participate in community-building activities, or maintain a sense of social responsibility. As a result, drug abuse not only damages their individual moral behavior but also isolates them from the larger society.

In light of these issues, it is crucial to address the impact of drug abuse on the moral behavior of secondary school students. This issue necessitates collaboration between educators, parents, health professionals, and policymakers to implement effective prevention and intervention strategies. By fostering a supportive environment that promotes healthy choices and moral development, it is possible to mitigate the detrimental effects of drug abuse on students. Researching the specific relationship between drug use and moral behavior in this demographic is essential for designing targeted solutions that can help young people navigate this difficult stage of their lives while maintaining their ethical integrity.

1.3. Aim and Objectives of the Study

The aim of the study is to examine Impacts of drug abuse and its consequences on moral behaviour of secondary school students. The specific objectives are:

1. To examine the prevalence of drug abuse among secondary school students.
2. To investigate the relationship between drug abuse and moral behavior in secondary school students.
3. To identify the factors contributing to drug abuse among secondary school students.
4. To assess the impact of drug abuse on academic performance and social relationships of secondary school students.

 

1.4. Research Questions

The research questions are buttressed below:

1. What is the prevalence of drug abuse among secondary school students?
2. What is the relationship between drug abuse and moral behavior in secondary school students?
3. What are the factors contributing to drug abuse among secondary school students?
4. How does drug abuse impact the academic performance and social relationships of secondary school students?

 

1.5. Research Hypothesis

The hypothetical statement of the study is buttressed below:

Ho: Drug abuse has no significant impact on moral behavior in secondary school students.

H1: Drug abuse has significant impact on moral behavior in secondary school students.

 

1.6. Significance of the Study

The significance of studying the impacts of drug abuse on the moral behavior of secondary school students lies in the pressing need to understand how substance use shapes the ethical development of young individuals. Adolescence is a pivotal period for the formation of values, beliefs, and behaviors that will influence one’s decisions throughout adulthood. By examining the consequences of drug abuse during this critical stage, this study aims to shed light on how drug use can distort moral reasoning, leading to detrimental changes in behavior that extend beyond the school environment. This understanding is essential for developing effective interventions that can help students make healthier choices and strengthen their moral compass.

One of the key contributions of this study is the potential to inform educational institutions about the direct relationship between substance abuse and student behavior. Teachers and administrators often face challenges in addressing students’ behavioral issues, which can include dishonesty, aggression, or disrespect for authority. By highlighting the connection between drug abuse and these behaviors, the study can encourage schools to consider substance use as a critical factor in their disciplinary approaches. Furthermore, this research will help schools recognize the need for a more holistic approach to student well-being that integrates academic, psychological, and moral development, instead of addressing these areas in isolation.

This study is also significant in terms of its potential to guide policy development and public health initiatives aimed at combating drug abuse among adolescents. Governments and organizations often develop drug prevention programs, but they may not fully account for the moral consequences that result from substance abuse. By exploring the moral implications of drug use on secondary school students, this study could provide valuable insights into how policies and programs can be refined to address not only the physical and psychological risks of drug abuse but also its effect on ethical and social development. This could lead to more comprehensive strategies that target both prevention and the promotion of moral values.

Additionally, understanding the effects of drug abuse on moral behavior is essential for parents and guardians who play a critical role in shaping the ethical foundation of their children. Through this study, parents may gain a deeper understanding of the challenges their children face when confronted with peer pressure, social influences, and the lure of substance use. With this knowledge, parents can be better equipped to engage in meaningful conversations with their children, provide guidance on moral decision-making, and recognize the signs of substance abuse early on. This could strengthen the home environment and create a more supportive network for students in their moral development.

Furthermore, this study is valuable because it contributes to the growing body of research on adolescent substance abuse, filling gaps in understanding the broader social and psychological impacts. While previous studies may have primarily focused on the physical and psychological effects of drug use, the moral consequences have often been overlooked. By addressing this area, the study adds a unique perspective to the field and can inspire future research that further explores how drug abuse influences various aspects of adolescent behavior. Understanding these nuanced effects is crucial for providing comprehensive support to students affected by substance use.

Finally, the findings of this study can have long-term benefits for society as a whole. When secondary school students are able to overcome the negative impacts of drug abuse on their moral behavior, they are more likely to become responsible, ethical adults who contribute positively to their communities. This can help reduce social issues related to crime, corruption, and antisocial behavior, as students who maintain strong moral values are less likely to engage in activities that harm others. In this way, the study not only addresses the immediate concerns of students and educators but also plays a part in fostering a more ethical, compassionate, and responsible society in the future.

1.7.  Scope of the study

The study examines Impacts of drug abuse and its consequences on moral behaviour of secondary school students. The study is limited to selected Secondary schools in Ikorodu, Lagos.

 

1.8. Operational Definition of Terms

Impacts: Impacts refer to the significant effects or influences that an event, action, or behavior has on an individual, group, or society. In the context of this study, impacts are the outcomes or changes that result from drug abuse, particularly how it affects the behavior, mental health, academic performance, and moral development of students.

Drug Abuse: Drug abuse refers to the intentional use of substances (e.g., alcohol, marijuana, prescription medications, or illicit drugs) in ways that are harmful to the individual’s health and well-being. It often involves using these substances in excessive amounts, for non-medical purposes, or in unsafe environments, leading to physical, psychological, or social harm.

Consequences: Consequences are the results or outcomes that follow a particular action or behavior. In the context of this study, consequences refer to the negative effects that drug abuse can have on a student’s moral behavior, including changes in decision-making, social interactions, academic performance, and ethical values.

Moral Behavior: Moral behavior refers to actions and decisions that align with accepted standards of right and wrong, shaped by societal norms, ethical principles, and personal values. In the context of students, it refers to their ability to act responsibly, with integrity, and to make decisions that consider the welfare of others, based on their moral reasoning and character.

Secondary School: Secondary school is an educational stage that typically follows primary (elementary) education and precedes higher education, such as college or university. It generally includes students aged between 12 and 18 years old, depending on the country’s education system. Secondary schools aim to provide students with advanced education in various subjects, preparing them for adulthood and further academic or vocational pursuits.

Students: Students are individuals who are actively engaged in learning, usually within an educational institution like a school or university. In the context of this study, students refer specifically to young people enrolled in secondary school who are in the process of developing academically, socially, and morally. They may face various influences, such as peer pressure and personal choices, that affect their behavior and decision-making.

Project – Impacts of drug abuse and its consequences on moral behaviour of secondary school students.