Sarata C5
Sarata C5
Sarata C5
5.0 DISCUSSION
Introduction
This chapter sheds light on various aspects of drug abuse among youth in Sukuta. It aims to
knit together the different components of the research report, drawing connections between
the study's objectives, literature from the opening chapters, and the critical analysis of the
findings
This study surveyed 83 participants, of whom (n=73) 88.0% were male, and (n=10) 12.0%
were female. Such a significant gender disparity suggests potential differences in drug abuse
prevalence within the study population, with males being more prominently affected. The
observed gender disparity aligns with a systemic review on Peer Influence and Adolescent
Substance use by Henneberger et al., (2020) which revealed that 56.3% of the total sample
were males, indicating a higher prevalence of drug abuse among males. However, this
magnitude can vary across different populations and settings. Regarding age distribution, the
largest group consisted of individuals aged 20-24 years, comprising 38 participants (45.8%).
The 15-19 age group followed closely behind, with 27 participants (32.5%), and the 25-29
age group had 18 participants (21.7%). This distribution indicates that drug abuse might be
more prevalent among young adults, especially those in their early twenties. The
concentration of drug abuse among young adults, particularly those in their early twenties,
mirrors broader epidemiological trends, highlighting the vulnerability of this age group to
Junior Secondary School education, and (n=11) 13.3% had attained Tertiary level education.
While these findings suggest a potential link between lower educational levels and drug
abuse, the relationship is complex and may be influenced by various contextual factors (????)
business (19.3%) and students (19.3%). These statistics underscore the importance of
occupations may entail varying levels of stressors and social environments conducive to
substance abuse (Chan et al., 2017). While self-employment and certain occupations may
expose individuals to risk factors for substance abuse, employment can also serve as a
protective factor through the provision of structure and social support (Collins et al., 1998).
The most abused drug substances within the study population include cocaine, tobacco,
marijuana/cannabis, kush and alcohol. The most prevalent combination reported by the
respondents. Such widespread use underscores the importance of addressing the associated
risks and implementing targeted interventions. A study by Gravely et al., (2020) revealed
how this combination poses significant health risks, including synergistic effects amplifying
addictive potential, heightened respiratory health hazards due to exposure to harmful smoke
constituents, increased risk of nicotine and cannabis dependence, cognitive impairments, and
elevated vulnerability to mood disorders and psychosis. Patterns of tobacco and cannabis co-
use appear to differ by country. An International Tobacco Control Survey identified that
Canada (36.3%), followed by the USA (29.1%), England (21.6%) and Australia (21.4%) had
the highest rates of tobacco and cannabis co-use (Gravely et al., 2020). There are limited
studies examining tobacco and cannabis co-use in the Gambia. The combination of Alcohol,
Cocaine, Tobacco, and Marijuana/Cannabis was reported by one respondent (1.2%). The
complications, and impaired cognitive function. Research indicates that concurrent use of
alcohol and cocaine can lead to the formation of cocaethylene, a toxic metabolite associated
with heightened cardiotoxicity and risk of overdose (GOSSOP et al., 2006). Moreover,
combining tobacco and marijuana/cannabis with alcohol and cocaine can exacerbate
respiratory issues and increase the risk of developing substance use disorders
was also reported by one respondent (1.2%). Concurrent use of alcohol, tobacco, and
marijuana/cannabis is common among polydrug users and can result in synergistic effects on
study by Lee (2022). His study also suggests that individuals who engage in this combination
Marijuana/Cannabis, Kush, and Alcohol was reported by one respondent (1.2%). The
polydrug use pattern with diverse pharmacological effects and potential for severe health
and alcohol is associated with increased risk of addiction, mental health disorders, and social
dysfunction (Greydanus et al., 2013). Moreover, the addition of kush (a potent strain of
marijuana) alongside alcohol and cocaine may exacerbate respiratory issues and cognitive
were reported by two respondents (2.4%). The combination of these drugs is characterized
by a high potency and potential for increased risk of addiction, respiratory problems, and
cognitive impairment. The same study by Greydanus et al., (2013) indicates that individuals
who use potent strains of marijuana, such as cannabinoid (locally called kush), may
experience more intense psychoactive effects and higher rates of dependence compared to
marijuana/cannabis use alone, which may seem less risky compared to the combinations
reported by the others. However, it still carries potential health consequences, including
marijuana/cannabis use has been associated with adverse effects on mental health, cognitive
function, and educational attainment (Hasin, 2023). Marijuana/Cannabis with Alcohol and
Tobacco was reported by one respondent (1.2%). Like other polydrug use, combining
marijuana/cannabis with alcohol and tobacco can lead to intensified psychoactive effects and
increased risk of addiction and respiratory problems (Glavak Tkalić et al., 2013). This
suggests that simultaneous use of these substances may impair cognitive function and
Tobacco, and Kush was reported by one respondent (1.2%) mentioned using this
combination. The addition of kush (a potent strain of marijuana) alongside alcohol, tobacco,
and marijuana/cannabis suggests a high-risk pattern of polydrug use with potential for severe
by one respondent (1.2%), suggests a pattern of polydrug use characterized by high potency
and potential for increased risk of addiction, respiratory problems, and cognitive impairment
(Hasin, 2023). The participants also reported various other combinations, including Tobacco
with Alcohol (n=1) 1.2%, Tobacco with Alcohol and Kush (n=1) 1.2%, Tobacco with
Marijuana/Cannabis with Kush (n=1) 1.2%, Tobacco with Kush and Marijuana/Cannabis (1,
1.2%), Tobacco with Marijuana/Cannabis alone (n=1) 1.2%, Marijuana/Cannabis with Kush
and Tobacco (N=1) 1.2%, Tobacco and Marijuana/Cannabis with Alcohol (n=2) 2.4%, and,
Tobacco and Marijuana/Cannabis with Kush (n=2) 2.4%. While all polydrug use carries
inherent risks, not all combinations are equally dangerous. However, all the combinations
mentioned above increase the potential for harm and requires careful consideration of the
crucial for developing targeted interventions and harm reduction strategies. Comprehensive
approaches addressing polydrug use should consider the unique characteristics of each
combination and tailor strategies to mitigate associated risks effectively. It would also be
essential to explore the motivations behind specific polydrug combinations and their impact
interrelated variables, ranging from familial dynamics and peer influences to societal norms
and accessibility.
with a notable proportion acknowledging learning to use drugs from home (n=15) 18.1%
agreed; (n=15) 18.1% strongly agreed), indicating potential exposure to parental or sibling
drug use, normalization of substance abuse within the family, or inadequate parental
supervision. This is evident by the substantial portion of respondents that said their parents
are addicted to drugs (n=3) 3.6% agreed; (n=19) 22.9% strongly agreed) and the notable
percentage (21.7%) of respondents agreed (n=5) 6.0% or strongly agreed (n=13), 15.7% that
their siblings are addicted to drugs. Parental and Sibling drug addiction can contribute to a
range of adverse outcomes for children and young adults, including the likelihood of
engaging in drug abuse due to modeling behavior and lack of proper supervision This
suggests that parents and sibling influences can be particularly strong during adolescence,
highlighting the need for targeted interventions addressing familial risk factors for substance
agreeing to these notions are relatively low, indicating potential variability in family
backgrounds and drug use patterns. However, they emerged as noteworthy influences,
(Alvarez-Alonso et al., 2016). Moreover, the experience of family conflicts (33.7% agreed,
1.2% strongly agreed) and domestic abuse (28.9% agreed, 9.6% strongly agreed) was
associated with drug abuse among respondents, indicating maladaptive coping mechanisms
and psychological distress within the familial context (Alvarez-Alonso et al., 2016).
Conversely, authoritative parenting styles were less prevalent (25.3% agreed, 2.4% strongly
agreed), although associated with lower levels of adolescent substance abuse, underscoring
the protective role of positive parenting practices (Chan et al., 2017). A substantial
proportion (n=21) 25.3% agreed that their parents are not employed, while (20.5%) of
respondents either agreed (n=2) 2.4% or strongly agreed (n=15) 18.1% that their families are
income are known risk factors for substance abuse, as individuals from economically
disadvantaged backgrounds may face increased stressors and fewer resources for coping. The
prevalence of low-income families in this sample highlights the need for interventions
Peer influences were also significant, with a notable proportion reporting friends' drug
addiction (n=32) 38.6% agreed and peer influence (n=7) 8.4% agreed, suggesting
susceptibility to peer pressure and social norms surrounding drug use (Collins et al., 1998).
However, the majority disagreed that drug use enhances social status (51.8% disagreed,
48.2% strongly disagreed), challenging conventional beliefs regarding substance use and
Societal and cultural factors played a crucial role, with all the respondents (100%) strongly
disagreeing that their societal culture allows drug use, potentially serving as protective
they do not have a family, and 19, 22.9% agreed; 34, 41.0% strongly agreed that they are
street kids), parental unemployment (n=21) 25.3% agreed and low income (n=2) 2.4%
agreed; (n=215) 18.1% strongly agreed, were identified as influential factors for drug abuse,
Individuals from economically disadvantaged backgrounds may face increased stressors and
fewer resources for coping (Russell et al., 2015). Perceptions of adulthood and associated
behaviors can influence substance use initiation and norms among youth. Therefore, the
rejection of the notion (n=19) 22.9% disagreed and (n=31) 37.3% strongly disagreed) that
substance use defines adulthood by the majority may indicate evolving attitudes towards
Accessibility and affordability influenced drug abuse patterns, with perceived barriers to drug
access (n=46) 55.4% disagreed that drugs are easy to find potentially limiting substance use
opportunities (Lee, 2022). Additionally, all the participants either disagreed (n=50) 60.2% or
strongly disagreed (n=33) 39.8% that drugs are cheaper at their place. The relatively low
perception of drug availability and affordability suggesting potential barriers to access, which
All respondents (100%) reported using drugs for one year or more, which is often associated
with increased risk of addiction, health complications, and social consequences. This
suggests that early intervention is crucial in preventing prolonged drug use and mitigating
associated harms. Only a few respondents agreed (n=22) 26.5% or strongly agreed (n=1)
1.2% that they use drugs daily. Daily drug use is indicative of dependence and addiction,
posing significant risks to physical health, mental well-being, and social functioning (Borders
Only about (n=25) 30.1% of respondents agreed that they always have a desire to use drugs.
While 11.6% of respondents agreed (n=9) 10.8% or strongly agreed (n=2) 2.8% that they feel
anxious or stressed when they did not take drugs. Persistent drug cravings are characteristic
of substance dependence and addiction, underscoring the need for comprehensive treatment
and relapse prevention strategies (Borders et al., 2009). About 28.9% of respondents agreed
(n=15) 18.1% or strongly agreed (n=9) 10.8% that they cannot do their daily activities
without drugs. Inability to perform daily activities without drugs indicates significant
impairment in functioning and underscores the debilitating effects of addiction on daily life.
psychological, and social aspects of addiction to restore functional capacity and improve
quality of life.
The study has shown that substance abuse was associated with various adverse
consequences, including familial conflicts (n=31) 37.3% agreed and (n=8) 9.8% strongly
activities 37.3% agreed, and psychiatric hospital admissions 47.0% agreed, highlighting the
multifaceted impacts of drug abuse on individual and societal well-being (Collins et al.,
1998).
A significant proportion (46.9%) of respondents agreed (n=31) 37.3% or strongly agreed (n=8)
9.8% that drug abuse creates problems between them and their parents. Substance abuse can
strain familial relationships and contribute to interpersonal conflict, emphasizing the need for
family-based interventions and support services. About 20.5% of respondents agreed (n=11),
13.3% or strongly disagreed (n=6) 7.2% that they have been in trouble at work or school because
of drug abuse and a significant proportion (49.4%) of respondents also agreed (n=14) 16.9% or
strongly agreed (n=27) 32.5% that they have lost a job or dropped out of school because of drug
abuse. Substance abuse can impair performance and productivity at work or school, leading to
disciplinary actions, academic failure, and job loss (Hernández-Serrano et al., 2018). This
educational and occupational settings and promote successful reintegration into work and school
of respondents agreed (n=3) 3.65% or strongly agreed (n=28) 33.7% that they can do anything to
get a drug. Desperation for obtaining drugs can lead to risky and criminal behaviors,
proportion (43.3%) of respondents agreed (n=5) 6.0% or strongly agreed (n=31) 37.3% that they
engage in illegal activities to obtain drugs. Involvement in criminal behavior is common among
individuals with substance dependence, underscoring the complex interplay between drug abuse
and criminality. This emphasizes the need for collaborative approaches involving law
enforcement, healthcare providers, and social services to address the intersecting issues of
in antisocial behaviors because of drug abuse. Substance abuse is often co-morbid with various
antisocial behaviors, including theft, runaway episodes, and risky sexual activities, which can
further exacerbate social and legal problems. This underscores the importance of comprehensive
recidivism rates and promote rehabilitation and reintegration into society. A majority (48.1%) of
respondents agreed (n=31) 37.3% or strongly agreed (n=9) 10.8% that they have committed a
crime as a result of drug abuse. Substance abuse is a significant risk factor for involvement in
criminal activities, including drug trafficking, property crimes, and violent offenses, which can
result in legal consequences and incarceration (Tomczyk et al., 2016). This emphasizes the need
for diversionary programs, alternative sentencing options, and rehabilitation services to address
the underlying issues driving substance-related criminal behavior and promote desistance from
crime. A majority (80.7%) of respondents agreed (n=11) 13.3% or strongly agreed (n=5) 6.0%
that they are unable to stop taking drugs when they want to. Loss of control over drug use is a
defining feature of addiction, highlighting the need for comprehensive treatment and support
services to facilitate recovery. This highlights the importance of evidence-based treatments, such
control over their drug use and achieve sustained recovery (Borders et al., 2009).
A significant portion (42.2%) of respondents agreed that they experience withdrawal symptoms
upon discontinuation of drug use. Withdrawal symptoms are physiological and psychological
reactions that occur when drug use is abruptly ceased or reduced. They occur upon
discontinuation of drugs and may involve insomnia, headache, sweating, anxiety, depression,
essential to manage withdrawal symptoms safely and support individuals through the
detoxification process (Tomczyk et al., 2016). A majority (55.4%) of respondents agreed (n=40)
48.2% or strongly agreed (n=6) 7.2% that they are considered delinquent by society.
can perpetuate social exclusion, discrimination, and barriers to accessing healthcare and support
services. Thus, emphasizing the need for destigmatization efforts, public education campaigns,
and advocacy initiatives to challenge negative stereotypes and promote empathy, understanding,
and support for individuals struggling with addiction. A significant proportion (83.1%) of
respondents disagreed (n=2) 2.4% or strongly disagreed (n=67) 80.7% on having a low income
as a result of drug addiction. Substance abuse can lead to financial instability, unemployment,
This underscores the importance of addressing substance abuse within a broader socio-economic
context, including access to employment opportunities, housing assistance, and social welfare
social inclusion (Borders et al., 2009). A greater minority (47.0%) of respondents agreed to have
been admitted to a psychiatric hospital. Co-occurring psychiatric disorders are common among
individuals with substance abuse disorders, necessitating integrated treatment approaches that
address both substance abuse and mental health issues. This emphasizes the importance of
screening and assessment for co-occurring disorders, collaborative care models, and evidence-
based treatments, such as dual diagnosis interventions, in promoting optimal outcomes for
multifaceted factors influencing drug abuse among youth in Sukuta. From family dynamics and
peer influences to societal and cultural norms, each factor plays a unique role in shaping
individual attitudes and behaviors towards substance use. Addressing these factors through
holistic, community-based interventions tailored to the specific needs and contexts of youth in
Sukuta is crucial for preventing and reducing the prevalence of drug abuse in the community.