Project – Knowledge and perception of drug abuse among young people in EKAE community

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

• Background to the Study

Drug abuse among young people is a persistent public health concern that has garnered significant attention in academic research and policy discussions. Several studies indicate that young people’s knowledge and perceptions of drug abuse significantly influence their susceptibility to engaging in substance use. A key factor in shaping these perceptions is the level of awareness and education about the risks of drug abuse. According to Chia and colleagues (2017), knowledge about the harmful effects of drugs can act as a protective factor against initiating drug use. Young people who have been exposed to comprehensive drug education programs, both in schools and in the community, tend to have a better understanding of the long-term consequences of drug abuse, which may reduce their likelihood of engaging in these behaviors.

Perception, however, plays a critical role in shaping behaviors related to drug use. According to a study by Turner et al. (2018), perceptions of drug use in one’s social environment, including peer pressure and societal attitudes, significantly influence adolescent decisions regarding substance abuse. Young individuals are often more likely to use drugs if they perceive it as socially acceptable or if they see it as a means of fitting in with their peers. This social aspect of drug abuse is further supported by findings from Marshall and Spitzer (2019), who highlight how peer influences and the normalization of drug use in certain communities can lead to increased rates of drug abuse among adolescents. In communities where drug use is normalized or viewed as a rite of passage, young people are less likely to view drug abuse as a risky behavior.

While knowledge and perception are vital, the role of familial and community influences cannot be overlooked. The family environment is often the first place where young people develop their initial perceptions of drug use. Studies have shown that parental attitudes toward drugs, as well as the presence of substance abuse within the household, can heavily influence a young person’s view of drug abuse (Evans et al., 2017). In cases where parents are drug users or have permissive attitudes toward substance use, children may internalize these behaviors and develop similar perceptions, increasing their likelihood of using drugs. Conversely, families that provide strong emotional support and clear boundaries regarding drug use can help shape more protective attitudes in their children.

Community-level factors also play a critical role in shaping perceptions of drug abuse among youth. Research by Johnson and Lee (2020) emphasizes the importance of community-based prevention programs that aim to educate young people on the dangers of drug use while also providing them with alternative activities and social support networks. Communities that invest in creating safe recreational spaces and provide access to mental health services may reduce the likelihood of young people turning to drugs as a coping mechanism. Moreover, the availability of community resources can help foster positive perceptions of healthy lifestyles, which may reduce the perceived appeal of drug use.

Despite the widespread efforts to reduce drug abuse among young people, misconceptions about drugs still prevail, influencing perceptions and attitudes. A study by Fernandez et al. (2021) found that many young people, particularly in rural or underserved areas, still have limited knowledge about the harmful effects of drugs, or they hold inaccurate beliefs about the risk of addiction. For instance, some youth perceive marijuana as a harmless substance, not recognizing its potential to lead to dependency or impair cognitive function over time. This misperception can be particularly problematic in light of increasing legalization and normalization of certain substances in some regions. In such contexts, there is a need for more targeted education campaigns that challenge these myths and provide accurate, science-based information about the dangers of substance use.

The relationship between knowledge, perception, and behavior surrounding drug abuse is complex and multifaceted. While enhanced knowledge and education about drug use can reduce the likelihood of engaging in substance abuse, young people’s perceptions of social norms and community influences may exert equal, if not greater, pressure to experiment with drugs. Interventions aimed at improving knowledge must therefore be complemented by efforts to shift social norms and perceptions of drug use within peer groups and communities. Future research should continue to explore the intricate ways in which knowledge, perception, and behavior interact, particularly in diverse cultural contexts, to develop more effective prevention strategies. Furthermore, engaging young people in dialogue about drug abuse, providing peer-led education, and fostering supportive community networks are essential steps toward combating drug abuse at the community level.

1.2. Statement of the Problem

Drug abuse among young people in Nigeria has emerged as a significant public health concern, with alarming rates of substance use reported across various regions of the country. This growing issue is often compounded by a lack of comprehensive awareness regarding the risks of drug abuse and misperceptions about the substances themselves. Studies indicate that many young Nigerians do not fully comprehend the physical, psychological, and social consequences of drug abuse. This gap in knowledge often results in harmful practices such as early initiation into drug use, experimentation with multiple substances, and prolonged abuse. Despite numerous public health campaigns, many young people continue to hold inaccurate or overly optimistic perceptions about the safety and acceptability of drugs, potentially heightening the prevalence of substance use in this demographic. Addressing this issue requires a deeper understanding of the factors influencing the knowledge and perceptions of drug abuse among Nigerian youth.

The lack of accurate knowledge about the consequences of drug abuse is a critical factor that influences young people’s drug-related behaviors in Nigeria. Research shows that many adolescents are either unaware of the long-term physical and mental health risks associated with substance use, or they significantly underestimate these risks (Olley et al., 2020). This lack of awareness is particularly troubling given the increasing availability of drugs in Nigerian communities, often facilitated by drug trafficking and poor regulation. In some instances, the perception that drugs such as marijuana, codeine, or even prescription medications are harmless or socially acceptable may lead young people to use them without fully understanding the potential for addiction, health deterioration, and social consequences. Without targeted interventions to correct these misconceptions and provide youth with factual information about drug abuse, the problem is likely to persist and worsen over time.

Furthermore, the social environment in Nigeria plays a significant role in shaping young people’s attitudes toward drug use. Peer influence, family dynamics, and societal norms are powerful factors that contribute to how young people perceive drug abuse. In many Nigerian communities, substance use is sometimes seen as a way to cope with stress, societal pressures, or economic hardship. In urban areas, where drug trafficking and availability are more pronounced, young people may also perceive drug use as a means of social acceptance or rebellion against authority. This social normalization of drug abuse exacerbates the problem by fostering an environment where substance use is not viewed as risky or problematic, but as part of the cultural fabric. Studies by Adeboye and Ojo (2021) highlight that these social perceptions often overshadow the educational efforts aimed at raising awareness about the dangers of drugs.

Additionally, the role of family in shaping the perceptions and behaviors of young people regarding drug abuse cannot be overstated. Many Nigerian youth grow up in households where substance use is either directly or indirectly normalized. In some cases, parents or older siblings may themselves engage in drug use, unintentionally modeling this behavior for younger generations. In other instances, the absence of parental guidance or supervision can lead to a lack of clear boundaries and understanding of the risks associated with drug use. According to Nwoke et al. (2022), family-related factors such as parental substance abuse, permissive parenting styles, or lack of emotional support significantly increase the likelihood of drug abuse among youth. The absence of positive role models and the lack of family-centered prevention programs often leave young people vulnerable to negative influences from their peer groups or the broader community.

Another critical dimension of the drug abuse problem in Nigeria is the underreporting and lack of effective monitoring mechanisms for substance use among young people. Many young Nigerians engage in drug use in secrecy due to the stigma attached to addiction or substance abuse, which often leads to underreporting in studies and surveys. Furthermore, there is limited data on the precise scope of drug abuse among Nigerian youth, which hinders the development of targeted and evidence-based interventions. While some research indicates high levels of drug use among adolescents, there remains a dearth of reliable statistics that can guide the formulation of effective policies or community programs. The lack of regular surveillance and reporting mechanisms in schools, communities, and health centers further complicates efforts to assess the extent of the problem and to implement timely interventions.

Finally, addressing drug abuse among young people in Nigeria requires a comprehensive, multi-level approach that involves both the education system and the community at large. Interventions must not only focus on enhancing knowledge and awareness but also aim to reshape perceptions about drug use. Community-based education programs, school curricula that emphasize drug prevention, and family-centered approaches all have the potential to reduce the prevalence of drug abuse. However, for these programs to be effective, they must be tailored to the specific cultural, social, and economic contexts of Nigerian communities. This requires extensive research to understand local perceptions of drug use, the specific substances abused, and the unique challenges faced by young people in different regions. Without addressing both the knowledge gaps and the distorted perceptions surrounding drug abuse, efforts to combat this issue will likely fall short.

1.3. Aim and Objectives of the Study

The aim of the study is to examine the Knowledge and perception of drug abuse among young people in EKAE community. The specific objectives are:

1. To assess the level of knowledge young people have about different types of drugs and their effects.
2. To understand the perceptions young people have towards drug abuse and its impact on individuals and society.
3. To identify the sources of information young people rely on when it comes to drug abuse.
4. To explore the attitudes young people have towards seeking help for drug abuse issues.

1.4. Research Questions

The research questions are buttressed below:

1. What is the level of knowledge that young people have about different types of drugs and their effects?
2. How do young people perceive drug abuse and its impact on individuals and society?
3. What are the sources of information that young people rely on when it comes to drug abuse?
4. What attitudes do young people have towards seeking help for drug abuse issues?

1.5. Research Hypothesis

The hypothetical statement of the study is buttressed below:

Ho: The level of knowledge young people has about drugs will not affect it usage

H1: The level of knowledge young people has about drugs will affect it usage.

1.6. Significance of the Study

The significance of this study lies in its potential to enhance the understanding of the knowledge and perceptions surrounding drug abuse among young people in Nigerian communities. By investigating how young individuals perceive the risks and consequences of drug abuse, this study can contribute to the identification of critical gaps in drug education and prevention programs. In Nigeria, where drug abuse is increasingly prevalent among youth, understanding these perceptions is essential for developing more effective public health interventions. The findings from this study could inform policymakers, educators, and healthcare professionals about the specific needs and challenges faced by young people, helping to design contextually relevant and culturally sensitive drug prevention strategies.

Furthermore, this study will offer valuable insights into the role of social and environmental factors in shaping youth perceptions of drug use. Peer pressure, family influences, and community norms all play significant roles in how young people view substance use. By highlighting these factors, the study will deepen the understanding of why certain groups of young people are more vulnerable to drug abuse than others. This knowledge is crucial for community leaders and social workers who aim to foster healthier environments for youth, where positive social norms and values are promoted. Additionally, understanding how social factors such as socioeconomic status, educational background, and urbanization influence drug use behaviors can help tailor interventions to specific communities, particularly those most at risk.

The significance of the study also extends to its potential to contribute to the development of more effective and localized drug prevention programs. In many Nigerian communities, drug abuse prevention programs are either insufficient or not adequately aligned with the unique cultural and social contexts of the youth. By gathering empirical data on the existing levels of knowledge about drugs and substance abuse, the study will offer actionable recommendations on how to improve existing educational campaigns. This could involve enhancing school-based drug education curricula, creating more engaging public awareness campaigns, or integrating drug prevention programs within community and religious organizations, where young people are often most receptive to learning.

Moreover, this study is significant in its ability to inform the development of national policies aimed at curbing drug abuse. The findings may provide insights into the effectiveness of current laws and regulations regarding drug trafficking, distribution, and consumption in Nigeria. A better understanding of young people’s knowledge gaps and misperceptions about drugs can help policymakers to design more targeted and evidence-based regulations. For example, if the study identifies widespread misconceptions about the safety of certain substances like marijuana or codeine, it may prompt a reevaluation of drug education policies and the implementation of more robust enforcement of anti-drug laws in areas with high levels of substance abuse.

This research will also contribute to the growing body of literature on adolescent health and drug abuse in developing countries, specifically in the African context. While significant research has been conducted in Western countries on the knowledge and perceptions of drug abuse among young people, there is a scarcity of studies focusing on sub-Saharan Africa, especially Nigeria. The study will, therefore, fill an important gap in the literature and contribute to the global discourse on drug prevention. It will also provide a comparative perspective for similar studies in other African countries, offering a deeper understanding of the regional differences in youth drug use patterns and attitudes toward substance abuse.

Finally, the study will have long-term implications for youth development in Nigeria. By addressing the issue of drug abuse at its root—through better education, perception management, and policy intervention—this research has the potential to positively impact the overall well-being of future generations. A healthier, more informed youth population will be better equipped to make decisions that protect their mental, physical, and emotional health. Reducing drug abuse not only improves individual health outcomes but also contributes to the broader goal of national development, as young people who are not affected by substance abuse are more likely to contribute positively to their communities and the economy. This study, therefore, stands to benefit both individual youths and Nigerian society at large by offering solutions to a pervasive and complex public health issue.

1.7. Scope of the Study

The study examines the knowledge and perception of drug abuse among young people in EKAE community. The study is restricted to young people under age 25 living in EKAE community.

1.8. Operational Definition of Terms

1. Knowledge: Knowledge refers to the understanding, awareness, or familiarity gained through experience or education. It encompasses facts, information, and skills acquired through learning or reasoning.
2. Perception: Perception is the process by which individuals interpret and make sense of sensory information, such as sights, sounds, and smells, as well as internal experiences. It involves not only the raw sensory data but also the mind’s interpretation based on past experiences, emotions, and context.
3. Drug Abuse: Drug abuse is the harmful or excessive use of substances, often illegal drugs or prescription medications, that can lead to addiction, health problems, and impaired functioning. It typically refers to using drugs in a way that causes damage to physical or mental health, relationships, or societal functioning.
4. Young People: “Young people” generally refers to individuals who are in the stages of adolescence or early adulthood, typically between the ages of 12 and 25. This age group is characterized by physical, emotional, and cognitive development, as well as the process of forming identity and navigating independence.
5. Community: A community is a group of individuals who share common interests, values, geographical location, or goals. Communities can be based on social, cultural, professional, or geographic bonds, and they often involve mutual support, interaction, and cooperation among their members.

Project – Knowledge and perception of drug abuse among young people in EKAE community