(International Journal of Humanities Social Sciences and Education (IJHSSE), 2017-05) Omuyoma, Mbayi Oliver
Adolescence is a period of significant developmental changes associated with the onset of drug
abuse worldwide. This study was set up to examine some of the factors associated with the onset and escalation
of drug abuse among secondary school students in Mombasa, Kenya. It also investigated the intervention
strategies used to control drug abuse among secondary school students. Stratified sampling was used to pick
120 students from secondary schools. A self-report questionnaire was used. Data was analysed using
descriptive statistics and presented in tabular form. The findings of this study highlighted the importance of peer
and family use of drugs in predicting both the onset and continuation of abuse of drugs among the secondary
school students. Majority of student respondents reported high levels of awareness of harmful effects associated
with substance use. The findings of this study suggest effective health guidance can assist secondary school
students make rational choices away from drugs.