Exploring Substance Use Among Late Adolescents in Mangaluru, India

Abstract: Adolescence is a significant transitioning phase of life where the young are prone to experiment and engage in risk-taking behaviours such as Substances use. The study objectives were to ascertain the reasons for first-time use of substances, occasions of use, and the sources of availing of banned substances among late adolescents. A quantitative and qualitative study approach was adopted with an exploratory and descriptive research design. Around 532 late adolescent students participated in the study, from colleges in urban & rural areas. The study outcomes highlight the primary reasons for adolescent substances-use was party/fun (45%) followed by curiosity&experimentation (35%) and suggestion from friends & family (11%). The top three occasions for substance use are parties (53%), weekends (18%) and when studying (10%). The top three sources of availing of banned substances are friends/ college mates (18%), agents (12%), and petty shops (8%). Qualitative findings showed that the first-time use of addictive substances among adolescents is primarily due to curiosity, experimentation and the influence of friends. Interviews revealed that faulty parenting techniques such as poor communication, providing ample finances and lack of supervision of hostellers are the common markers of adolescent substance use. Hostels and parties are often popular places among students to initiate substance use. The channels for obtaining Banned substances are through students (for financial gains) who have dealt with middlemen/traffickers in the past. Often vehicles such as cars/trains and modern technology are adopted by drug traffickers. Instances of Weed (marijuana) being grown at home in the backyards is seen. Various recommendations at Educational Institutes, law enforcement and Government Policy levels are made. Further research, to probe deeper into understanding the effects of substance use and health concerns due to substance use is suggested.