Family and parental factors contributing to drugs and substance abuse among youth in the slum of Teso Bar, Lira City, Northern Uganda

Abstract

Background: Drug and substance abuse among youth is a rising concern in urban slum settings across Uganda, particularly in Teso Bar, Lira City. Adolescents in these areas face socio economic hardships, limited access to education and healthcare, and weak parental involvement factors that contribute to early and sustained substance use. Despite existing policies and interventions, limited attention has been paid to the role of parents in either mitigating or exacerbating this problem. Methodology: This study employed a descriptive research design with a qualitative approach. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and key informant interviews involving 50 respondents, including youth aged 15–24, parents/guardians, and community stakeholders. Descriptive statistics and thematic analysis were used to analyze the data. Findings: Results revealed that 64% of youth had used drugs, with many reporting minimal parental supervision and communication. Regression analysis showed no statistically significant predictors, but thematic patterns highlighted weak parental involvement and household-level drug exposure as contributing factors. The impacts of drug use included mental health challenges, academic failure, family conflict, and social withdrawal. Support systems were found to be largely unavailable, inaccessible, or ineffective, with only 8% of respondents having ever used any form of support. Conclusion: The study concludes that while multiple factors contribute to youth drug abuse, parental roles particularly supervision, communication, and behavior modeling are central yet under-addressed influences. Recommendations: Strengthening parental capacity, increasing community awareness, enhancing school involvement, and establishing youth-friendly rehabilitation services are critical steps toward reversing substance abuse trends in Teso Bar and similar slum environments.