Abstract:
ABSTRACT
Studies in the area of drug and substance use and abuse have concentrated on strategies
of curbing drug abuse; however, there remains an overriding need to understand the root
cause of drug use and abuse particularly among students; that is; school factors that
facilitate drug abuse among the students (curiosity, school intervention strategies, peer
pressure and availability of drugs). The study was guided by two theories; Modified
Social Stress Model and the social model theory. The study adopted ex-post facto
research design. The target population of the study was 11536 students, 36 teachers
(Heads of Guidance and Counselling) and 36 principals. Ninety nine students, Thirty
three teachers (Heads of Guidance and Counselling) and 33 principals were sampled from
the population as respondents in the study. Questionnaires were used to collect data. Data
was analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively. Pearson Correlation Coefficient was used
to test the hypothesis. The findings of the study indicated propensity to use drugs was
positively correlated to peer pressure. The study also found out that propensity to use
drugs is negatively correlated to school intervention measures. Further, the study found
out that propensity to use drugs is positively correlated to student curiosity. The findings
of the study indicated that propensity to use drugs was positively correlated to availability
of drugs. Based on the findings of the study, it is recommended that peer counseling in
schools be strengthened, drug prevention policy in schools be made more participatory
and involve students in formulating the policies aimed at drugs prevention. The findings
of the study may be of help to teachers, students and school administrators in developing
strategies that will deter students from engaging in drug abuse.
