Factors influencing the prevalent and correlate of drug abuse by students of secondary schools in Gatundu division, Thika district, Kenya

Abstract

The study was focused on drug use and abuse in Secondary Schools in Gatundu Division in Thika District. It investigated factors influencing drug abuse and their prevalence. The correlate of Abuse of drug to religious affiliation, gender, availability and social economic status was also studied. A descriptive research method was used to collect data. Structured questionnaires were administered to headteachers, teachers, teacher counsellors and form three students in the sampled schools. The latter were sampled through stratified random method. A Total of 150 respondents successfully filled the questionnaires. The study sample comprised of 120 students in two boys boarding schools, one girls boarding schools and three mixed day schools. Six headteachers, six teachers counsellors and eighteen teachers from the six randomly sampled schools also participated in the study. Descriptive and inferential statistical analysis used. Percentage and frequencies were used to describe the variables. Chi square (x2) method was used to test the Null hypothesis as the data were in frequency counts. Most students were aware of drug abuse, alcohol, cigarette and bhang being the most preferred drugs. Drugs were made available in variety of ways. Students living in urban centres were more likely to abuse drugs in addition, those staying with guardians rated high in drug use. Most students preferred the use of Guidance and Counselling as effective method to curbs drug problems in schools. The findings revealed a rising trend of drug abuse among students and recommended that: - - Teachers Counsellors take the challenge and effectively address the problem. -Teachers Counsellors to constantly update themselves with current methods of handling drug problems. - Government formulates strict legal policy in dealing with drug production, supply and consumption. Government makes deliberate effort to educate people on dangers of drug abuse. It should be incorporated in the curriculum and taught in schools.