Abstract

This study explores the knowledge of youths in the Mutengene community regarding the causes and effects of drug abuse. With increasing rates of drug abuse among young people, understanding their awareness and perceptions is critical in developing preventive strategies and intervention programs. Drug abuse in youths often leads to adverse health, social, and economic outcomes, including impaired mental and physical health, academic difficulties, and a rise in community-based crime. This study aims to assess youths’ knowledge of the primary causes, contributing factors, and consequences of drug abuse, offering insights into areas where education and awareness programs may be lacking.

A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 100 participants aged 15–30 years, selected through random sampling within Mutengene. Data collection was carried out using a structured questionnaire focusing on general awareness, perceived causes, effects of drug abuse, and specific substances commonly abused, such as cannabis, alcohol, and prescription drugs. Demographic information including age, gender, educational background, and socio-economic status was also collected. The questionnaire also included questions assessing youths’ understanding of the health and social consequences of drug abuse, including addiction, mental health disorders, relationship breakdowns, and increased risk of legal issues.

The results reveal that while 60% of the respondents are aware of what drug abuse entails, only 40% could accurately identify the main causes, such as peer pressure, unemployment, and the influence of social media. A significant portion, approximately 55%, associated drug abuse primarily with socialization or experimentation, with many failing to recognize the role of stress or economic hardship as underlying contributors. The study also found that over 70% of respondents were aware of the immediate effects of drug abuse, such as temporary euphoria and relaxation, but only 35% understood the long-term consequences, including addiction, mental health issues, and legal implications. Awareness of specific drugs was also varied; for instance, 80% of participants identified cannabis and alcohol as commonly abused substances, while awareness of prescription drug misuse was lower, with only 25% of respondents recognizing it as a form of abuse.

These findings suggest gaps in knowledge related to the long-term effects of drug abuse and certain less-publicized substances. The data points to a need for community-based educational programs that focus on the full spectrum of drug-related consequences and address misconceptions around the causes of drug abuse. Awareness campaigns should particularly target the younger demographic to emphasize the risks of drug dependency and provide strategies for resisting peer pressure. By enhancing youths’ understanding of the causes and effects of drug abuse, the community can better equip its youth population to make informed, healthier choices.

Keywords: Drug abuse, youth knowledge, causes, effects, Mutengene community, prevention, education, awareness.