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VOL. 11, ISSUE 4 (2025)
Assessing the impact of peer pressure on drug abuse among youths: A study of enugu youths
Authors
Onodugo Ifeanyi Chris, Dr. Uzochukwu Silba, Onyeledo Peace Ijeoma, Chidi Enemo Chinaza
Abstract
This study investigates the effect of peer
pressure on drug abuse among youth in Enugu, a city in southeastern Nigeria. To
achieve the research objectives, qualitative data were collected, analyzed, and
interpreted using Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) and Key Informant Interviews
(KIIs). A purposive sampling technique was employed to select 18 participants,
comprising 12 street-involved youth and 6 staff members from both governmental
and non-governmental organizations involved in youth-focused programs. The
study identified five major themes aligned with its objectives: (1) the role of
peer pressure, (2) forms of peer pressure, (3) commonly abused drugs among
street youth, (4) factors contributing to youth living on the streets, and (5)
the impact of drug abuse on youth and its relation to peer pressure in
educational settings. Findings revealed that peer pressure significantly
influences drug use behavior among street youth, often manifesting in both
positive and negative forms. Substances such as khat, cigarettes, alcohol,
shisha, and glue (benzene) were among the most commonly abused, while drugs
like hashish, marijuana, cocaine, and heroin were also reported in specific
areas. Contributing factors to street life and drug abuse included poverty,
family breakdown, deviant behavior, parental loss, and peer influence. Furthermore,
the study highlighted the consequences of drug abuse, which include mental
health challenges, social and economic instability, physical harm, substance
dependence, and psychological disorders. The findings emphasize the urgent need
for targeted interventions that address peer group dynamics and provide
supportive services for vulnerable youth populations in urban centers like
Enugu.
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Pages:67-72
How to cite this article:
Onodugo Ifeanyi Chris, Dr. Uzochukwu Silba, Onyeledo Peace Ijeoma, Chidi Enemo Chinaza "Assessing the impact of peer pressure on drug abuse among youths: A study of enugu youths". International Journal of Medical and Health Research, Vol 11, Issue 4, 2025, Pages 67-72
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