Effects of drug and substance abuse on the behaviour of youths: a case study of Kisenyi III Parish, Kampala Central Division

Abstract

This research study explored the effects of drug and substance abuse on the behaviour of the youths of Kisenyi III Parish, Kampala central division. This study covered three objectives which were; a) To examine the influence of drug and substance abuse on youth’s social interaction behaviour, b) To establish the relationship between drug and substance abuse and youth’s criminal behaviour and c) To examine the influence of drug and substance abuse on youth’s dropout behaviour. A cross-sectional research design was used and both qualitative and qualitative approaches were employed in the study. 30 youths and 10 key informants were purposively recruited in the study. Semi-structured interviews and observation methods were employed during data collection. Questionnaires, an interview guide, and observation checklist tools were used in collecting data. Quantitative data analysis was conducted with support of Statistical Package of Social Sciences (SPSS) to determine the frequency distribution of several variables. Qualitative data was analysed through thematic data analysis. More males than females were recruited in the study (70% compared to 30%). The study found out that drug and substance abusing youths were at a risk of engaging in crimes most especially fighting and robbery. The study also found out that drug and substance abusing youths were at risk of dropping out from school. The study also found out that drug and substance abusing youths mostly interact with their peers as compared to other community members. The study recommends the implementation of community wide sensitizations that address the effects of drug and substance abuse on behaviour.