FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TO SUBSTANCE (DRUG) ABUSE AMONG MALE ADOLESCENTS IN SOUTH AFRICAN PUBLIC SECONDARY SCHOOLS

Year 2017, Volume: 9 Issue: 1, 108 - 120, 01.02.2017

İrene Mohasoa Sello Mokoena

Abstract

This small-scale study sought to determine the factors that contribute to use of
drugs by male adolescents in South African public secondary schools. The study
was conducted in four secondary schools in Zeerust, North West, a province of
South Africa. Purposive sampling was employed to select from the secondary
schools 12 male adolescents who were prone to substance abuse problems. A
qualitative research approach was followed underpinned by the interpretive
research paradigm. More specifically, a multiple case research design was used.
The study was successful in identifying the most commonly used drugs such as
alcohol, nicotine, cannabis, and heroin. These drugs are readily available in the
surrounding communities and are affordable to the learners. Social and economic
factors are the main factors contributing to the use of drugs among male
adolescents. The way in which children are brought up, who they associate with
and whether they have access to money to buy the drugs largely contribute to drug
use. This study concludes by proposing mitigation strategies that can be employed
to deal with substance abuse scourge before it escalates further. Furthermore, the
study identifies a need for involvement of various stakeholders to find a solution
to the substance abuse problem.

Keywords

Substance abuse, adolescent, addict, factors, secondary schools