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INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS |Volume VII Issue X October 2023
Page 191
www.rsisinternational.org
Strategies to Curb Substance Addiction among Emerging Adults in
Ongata Rongai Sub County, Kajiado County, Kenya
Susan Ndinda Kivuva, Wambua Pius Muasa Ph.D
Institute of Youth Studies, School of Arts and Social Sciences, Tangaza University College, Catholic
University of Eastern Africa, Kenya
DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.47772/IJRISS.2023.701018
Received: 17 September 2023; Accepted: 27 September 2023; Published: 26 October 2023
ABSTRACT
Curbing Substance addiction is significant to the well-being of emerging adults. This qualitative study
aimed at exploring the strategies to curb substance addiction among emerging adults in Ongata Rongai Sub
County, Kenya. The study utilized exploratory research design. Purposive sampling technique was used to
select 20 participants for the study. Interview Guide was used to collect data from the participants. Thematic
analysis was used to analyze data from the participants. The findings identified guidance and counselling,
empowerment with skills, sensitization and creation of job opportunities as strategies that can be used to
curb substance addiction among the emerging adults. The study recommends to the government and other
stakeholders to sensitize emerging adults on the impact of substance abuse to their well-being. Also, the
addiction counsellors and psychologists need to come with preventive measures to substance abuse among
emerging adults and suggest appropriate interventions to those already addicted and need rehabilitation.
Finally, government need to enforce laws on those who are involved with drugs selling and trafficking.
Key Words: Strategies, substance addiction, emerging adults
INTRODUCTION
Family functioning plays a critical role in the prevention and treatment of substance addiction. Poor family
functioning such as communication problems, conflict, and lack of support, can contribute to substance
abuse and addiction among youths. Suburban families are not immune to these problems and may even face
unique challenges due to their environment. According to Smith and Estefan (2014), substance addiction is
widely viewed as the dependent individual issue but the family is equally affected by their members’
addiction. Smith and Estefan (2014) state that, there is need to understand the experiences of parents whose
children are in dependence of substances of addiction and explore the experiences of the parents and
especially the mother who is mostly viewed as the primary care giver. This exploration gives deeper
understanding of the familial and social complexities that are involved in parenting addicted youths.
According to UN office of Drugs and Crime (UNODC) the global initiative should be to allocate necessary
resources and adequate attention to intervene on the aspects of drugs problems in the world. It should also
provide good care for those in need, share knowledge on how drug use not only affects the user but inter
plays with other challenges for example conflicts and degrading the environment. UNODC, putting a joint
effort in the international community, governments, civil society and other benefactors can enhance the
efforts of strengthening and protecting people from destructive substance addiction, prevent and tackle the
rising supply of drugs to the youths.
There is a need to ensure proper family functioning from a global system that ensures youths population in
the sub-urban communities gets proper access to education, health, and justice. Through the education
strategy, youths get informed about classroom family engagements, knowing all the contexts of involvement
and participation in family growth and cultural engagements (García-Fernández et al., 2023). Cultural
engagements, for instance, play a significant role in the global sub-urban population and area developments
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS |Volume VII Issue X October 2023
Page 192
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and progress. Efficacious socially responsive practices for domestic enragements facilitate and enhance
family functioning from a global state and position.
Family therapy is a proven effective strategy to enhance family functioning among suburban families. This
intervention can help family members to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and build stronger
relationships. The therapist works with the family members to identify their strengths and weaknesses, set
goals, and develop strategies to achieve those goals. Family therapy has been shown to reduce substance use
and improve mental health outcomes (Kumpferet al., 2014). Parenting programs can be another effective
strategy to enhance family functioning. These programs aim to improve parenting skills, increase parent-
child communication, and promote positive family relationships. These programs may include topics such
as effective communication, setting boundaries, and managing emotions. Parenting programs have been
shown to reduce the risk of substance use among adolescents and improve family functioning (Dakofet al.,
2015).
Community-based programs can be a valuable resource for suburban families to enhance family
functioning. These programs can provide support, education, and resources to families affected by substance
addiction. Community-based programs may include support groups, educational workshops, and
recreational activities. These programs can also help families to develop social connections and a sense of
community. Community-based programs have been shown to improve family functioning and reduce
substance use (Hawkins et al., 2019). Education and awareness campaigns can be an effective strategy to
enhance family functioning among suburban families. These campaigns can increase knowledge and
awareness of substance addiction, its risks, and its impact on families. Education and awareness campaigns
can also help to reduce stigma and encourage help-seeking behaviours. These campaigns can be delivered
through various channels, including social media, schools, and community centres. Education and
awareness campaigns have been shown to improve family functioning and reduce substance use
(Winstanley, et al., 2018).
A multidisciplinary approach can be an effective strategy to enhance family functioning among suburban
families. This approach involves a team of professionals working together to provide comprehensive care to
families affected by substance addiction. The team may include mental health professionals, medical
professionals, social workers, and community leaders. This approach can provide a range of services,
including counselling, medical treatment, case management, and community support. A multidisciplinary
approach has been shown to improve family functioning and reduce substance use (National Academies of
Sciences, Engineering & Medicine, 2019).
Education has been identified as an effective strategy for improving family functioning and reducing the risk
of substance addiction. In a study conducted in Ghana by Aboagye et al. (2021), found that providing
education to parents about the risks and consequences of substance use was associated with a decrease in
adolescent substance use. Similarly, Foster et al. (2013) found that parental education was associated with a
decreased likelihood of substance use among Black youth in Los Angeles. Also, parenting skills training has
been found to be effective in improving family function and reducing the risk of substance addiction. In a
study conducted in Nigeria by Ojonuba et al. (2023) found that parenting skills training was associated with
a decrease in substance use among adolescents. Similarly, a review by Rowe (2012) found that family
therapy interventions that included parenting skills training were associated with improved outcomes for
substance-addicted youths.
Family therapy has also been found to be an effective strategy for improving family function and reducing
the risk of substance addiction. In a study conducted in South Africa, Kaminer et al. (2013) found that
family therapy was associated with a decrease in substance use and improved family functioning. In a study
conducted in Nigeria by Chakraborty, et.al. (2017) found that community-based interventions, such as
support groups and counselling services, were associated with improved outcomes for substance-addicted
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS |Volume VII Issue X October 2023
Page 193
www.rsisinternational.org
youth. Strengthening cultural values that prioritize family and community can improve family function and
reduce the risk of substance addiction. In a study conducted in Nigeria, Akinola (2015) found that cultural
values that emphasized the importance of family and community were associated with improved outcomes
for substance-addicted youth. Similarly, Okonkwo et al. (2020) argued that cultural values that prioritize
family and community can help reduce the stigma associated with substance addiction and promote shared
responsibility for addressing the problem. Addressing underlying socioeconomic factors, such as poverty and
unemployment, can improve family function and reduce the risk of substance addiction. In a review of
substance addiction in Africa, Nadkarni et al. (2023) argued that addressing socioeconomic factors is
essential for reducing the risk of substance addiction.
A study by Yahaya (2019) found that family and community interventions were associated with reduced
rates of substance abuse among young people in Nigeria. According to McCarthy (2023) the Community
Reinforcement and Family Training (CRAFT) program was developed to reduce drug and alcohol use
among young people. The program involved working with community-based organizations, schools, and
health facilities to deliver evidence-based interventions that focused on promoting healthy behaviours and
discouraging substance abuse. According to a study by Omina (2021), family intervention was associated
with reduced rates of substance abuse among young people in Kenya. Family functioning is an important
aspect of family life that determines the quality of relationships and interactions among family members. In
Kenya, as in many other parts of the world, families face a range of challenges that can affect their
functioning, including poverty, violence, and lack of access to education and healthcare. Enhancing family
functioning can be a critical step towards improving the well-being of families and communities in Kenya.
One strategy for enhancing family functioning is family therapy. Family therapy is an evidence-based
approach that is designed to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and enhance relationships among
family members. A study by Maitha et al. (2013) found that family therapy was effective in improving
family communication, cohesion, and flexibility among families in Kenya. According to Swan et al. (2022)
involved Somali refugee mothers with PTSD and their children, and it found that group-based therapist-
assisted exposure plus parenting-focused treatment was effective in improving the mental health and
functioning of both mothers and children. The study suggests that family therapy can be an effective
strategy for enhancing family functioning in Kenya.
Another strategy for enhancing family functioning is parenting programs. Parenting programs are designed
to provide parents with skills and strategies for improving their parenting practices and enhancing their
relationships with their children. A study by Okari et al.(2018) found that a parenting program was effective
in enhancing parental involvement, communication, and discipline practices among Kenyan parents. The
study involved parents of children aged 6-14 years, and it found that the parenting program led to significant
improvements in parenting practices and family functioning. Economic empowerment is another strategy
that can enhance family functioning in Kenya. Economic empowerment interventions, such as microfinance
and vocational training, can provide families with the resources and skills they need to improve their
economic well-being and reduce financial stress. A study by Gikandiet et al. (2021) found that economic
empowerment interventions improved family cohesion and communication in Kenya. The study involved
households in two slum areas in Nairobi, and it found that microfinance and vocational training
interventions led to significant improvements in family functioning. The study suggests that economic
empowerment interventions can be an effective strategy for enhancing family functioning in Kenya which
can play a significant role in curbing substance addictions among youths.
Community-based interventions can also be effective in enhancing family functioning in Kenya.
Community-based interventions can provide families with support and resources to improve their
relationships and communication. A study by Puffer et al. (2021) found that a community-based
intervention that included parenting education and family counselling improved family communication and
cohesion. The study involved adolescents and their parents in rural Tanzania, and it found that the
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS |Volume VII Issue X October 2023
Page 194
www.rsisinternational.org
intervention led to significant improvements in family functioning. According to NACADA (2015) there is
need for parents to be actively involved in the fight against substance addiction among their children. Efforts
need to be made by families to be involved in the youth’s lives even when they do not consider their
children to be at risk. NACADA report(2015) states that parents who are abusers themselves are not good
role models to their children. NACADA (2015) recommended enhancing family functioning by helping
families learn how to address the issue of substance addiction by creating groups where parents can support
each other and share experiences. The current study aimed at exploring the strategies to curb substance
addiction among emerging adults in Ongata Rongai Sub County, Kenya.
METHODOLOGY
The current study employed exploratory research design. According to Yilmaz (2013) exploratory approach
refers to a useful tool to provide assistance in the understanding of the respondent’s behaviour and complex
attitude and interaction. It involves gathering information and insights to gain a deeper understanding of the
subject under investigation, often without a specific hypothesis or research question in mind. Exploratory
research design is characterized by flexibility, openness, and a focus on generating new ideas or hypotheses
for further research. The design was suitable for this study because it aims at exploring the strategies to curb
substance addiction among emerging adults in Ongata Rongai Sub County, Kenya.
The study utilized purposive sampling technique. It involves deliberately choosing individuals who possess
certain characteristics or have firsthand knowledge of the phenomenon under study. This sampling method
is commonly used in qualitative research, where researchers aim to gain in-depth insights and understanding
of a particular topic. Purposive sampling allows researchers to select participants who can provide rich and
meaningful information, based on their expertise, experiences, or unique perspectives. The study utilized a
sample size of 20 participants which comprised of 13 emerging adults, 3 parents, 2 religious leaders and 2
government administrators.
The study employed Interview Guide as instrument of data collection. The Interview Guide consisted of
open ended questions which aimed at gathering qualitative data from the objective of the study. The
Interview Guide had two sections. The first part captured the demographic details of the participants
including age, gender, religion and educational level. The second section captured open ended questions on
strategies to curb substance addiction among emerging adults. Thematic analysis was used to identify and
report themes that emerged from the data.
RESULTS
The study was set out to explore strategies to curb substance addiction among emerging adults in Ongata
Rongai Sub County, Kenya. Using thematic analysis, the themes from the data collected was identified and
supported by verbatim from the participants. Before presenting the findings, the study presented the
demographic details of the participants.
Demographic details of the participants
The study presented the demographic of the participants who were interviewed. The demographic details
were age, gender, religion and educational level. The study had two categories of participants for interviews
which were emerging adults and key informants. The demographic details for emerging adults’ participants
were presented first followed by the Key Informants.
Demographic Details for Emerging Adult Participants
The study presented the demographic details of the emerging adult participants that were interviewed. The
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS |Volume VII Issue X October 2023
Page 195
www.rsisinternational.org
results are presented in table 1.
Table 1. Demographic Details for Adult Emerging Participants
Participant Number
Age
Gender
Religion
Educational Level
1
23
Male
Christian
Vocational Training
2
20
Male
Christian
Vocational Training
3
22
Male
Muslim
Vocational Training
4
20
Male
Christian
Vocational Training
5
23
Male
Christian
Vocational Training
6
21
Male
Traditional
Vocational Training
7
19
Male
Christian
Vocational Training
8
18
Male
Christian
Vocational Training
9
22
Male
Muslim
Vocational Training
10
27
Male
Christian
Vocational Training
11
17
Male
Christian
Vocational Training
12
19
Male
Christian
Vocational Training
13
20
Male
Christian
Vocational Training
Table 1 show that participants were between ages of 17 years to 27 years. The average age of participants
was 20 years. All the participants were males and were in recovery from substance addiction. Almost all the
participants were Christian except two participants who were Muslims and one participant who belonged to
traditional religion. All the participants had vocational training in their level of education.
Demographic Details of the Key Informants
Table 2. Demographic Details for Key Informant Participants
Participant Number
Age
Gender
Religion
Level of Education
1
30
Male
Christian
Technical College
2
26
Male
Christian
Higher Polytechnic
3
27
Male
Christian
Higher Polytechnic
4
51
Male
Christian
Masters Level
5
39
Female
Christian
BA
6
53
Female
Christian
BA
7
44
Male
Christian
BA
Table 2 showed that the youngest key informant was 26 years while the oldest was 53 years old. The
average age for the Key Informants was 39 years old. Majority of the participants were males compared to
their female counterparts. All the participants were Christians and had college training, and BA except one
participant who had a Master’s degree.
Strategies to curb substance abuse among Emerging Adults in Ngong sub-county, Nairobi Guidance
and counselling
Almost all the participants identified guidance and counselling as a strategy to curb drug and substance
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS |Volume VII Issue X October 2023
Page 196
www.rsisinternational.org
abuse among the young adults in sub-urban families. Government has a responsibility of creating
rehabilitation centres to offer counselling to young adults with problem of substance abuse. Parents have a
responsibility to bringing up their children in responsible manner. The society need to play a significant role
in mentoring young people and guiding them in their daily lives. The theme was supported by a young adult,
who said,
“Yes, when organizations or government come up with rehabilitation centres or even projects to help the
young adults its easier to reduce and overcome substance addiction. One is to ensure that all the young
adults are given guidance and counselling and ensuring that no youths are idle in the society. The society
should also come up with programs to help the youths to change their mindset and focus on the important
things in life” (Participant 2).
Another young adult participant echoed the theme by emphasizing that parents have a responsibility of
providing guidance and counselling to their children when said “Parents should give advices and
counselling to their children, they should look or create jobs to satisfy their families, implementation of
family rules which if broken should be followed by severe consequences and the family should be more open
to their kids” (Participant 12). The same theme was supported by a Key Informant participant who said
“The family can recommend counselling and therapies to young people who are already addicted, parents
can create awareness to their children, enhance good interrelationships between minors and their parents,
relatives and guardians” (KI 2). Furthermore, the theme was emphasized by another key informant who
said “As I mentioned earlier society and culture should be proactive, create multiple for a where young
adults can seek counsel and guidance. They should shun promotional materials that encourage alcohol and
substance abuse in addition there should be counselling services that are available and affordable” (KI 4).
Empowerment with skills
Empowerment of young people with different skills emerged as a theme from the majority of the
participants as one way of preventing young people from abusing drugs. If young people are trained in skills
and have good role models from the society, that can curb them from drug abuse. Empowering young
people with skills provides them with opportunities to have jobs and be able to meet their basic needs. The
theme of empowerment with skills came out clearly from a young adult, who said,
“Substance addiction could have been prevented if young adults were engaged with productive activities, be
trained on life-skills in school, have role models and be guided when they go wrong. Improving family
functioning to mitigate young adults from substance addiction there are things that can be done these are;
empowering the family, training them on counselling skills, business skills and providing funds to start
business” (Participant 4).
In addition, the theme was supported by a key informant participant who emphasized that youths need to be
empowered by giving them responsibilities and making education affordable to all when said “
By providing platform for empowering youth in the society and by giving them responsibilities, mentoring
them to become better citizens. Reducing educational fee so that all youths can access education at a
cheaper cost” (KI 5). Furthermore, the theme of empowerment of young people with skills was echoed by
another key informant who said,
Give education and training aligned to future purpose; create jobs for young people, put in place punitive
sanctions for substance distributors. Offer education to empower communities to say no to drugs. Promote
counselling/psycho-education for public places like hospitals, churches and local government spaces. Need
to encourage local community groups to work with challenged families and provide support. Youth sports
and projects to provide social support and income generation for youths. Enabling youths to put their voice
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS |Volume VII Issue X October 2023
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on how to fight drug menace and champion for a drug free society and involve religious communities to
collaborate in fighting drugs situation in the society”.
Sensitization
Most of the participants expressed the need to sensitize young people on substance abuse either through
seminars and workshops. The local administration and educators have a responsibility to create self-
awareness to youths on the effects of substance abuse. This awareness creation can play a significant role in
curbing drug and substance abuse among the young people. This is emphasized a young adult participant
who said “Of course substance addiction could have been prevented among young adults by educating the
public against the use of drugs, arresting and punishing the perpetrators as well as providing job
opportunities for the youths” (Participant 7). The theme was also supported by another young adult who
said “Through youth forums, engaging the youth often and educating them on drug abuse and substance
addiction and also by creating job opportunities for the young adults” (Participant 10). Likewise, the theme
was supported by another young adult who said “The local Chiefs to bring people together and share talks
on issues affecting the families and young adults, create jobs through National Youth Service, offer safety
and security for everyone” (Participant 8). In addition, the theme was supported by key informants. For
instance, “Creating awareness on effects of substance abuse, training and showcasing them on skills to
enable them learn and practice good family functioning skills” (KI 2). Also, another key informant
participant supported the theme when said “To have some regulation and guidance in the village, have some
psycho-education seminars on the impact of substance addiction on ones wellbeing. Also making sure that
all children in the village go to school through the assistance of ‘Nyumba Kumi” (KI 5).
Creation of job opportunities
Almost all the participants indicated creation of jobs to young people as a way of preventing them in getting
to substance abuse. When job opportunities are availed to young people based on their skills and talents,
they are likely not to get involved with drugs and substance abuse. The government can create jobs to young
people by giving the affordable loans with lower interest rates. The theme is expressed by a young adult
who said “Offering job opportunities to youths, families loving their children and supporting the youth get
opportunities for their talents like playing football are my opinion for preventing young adults from
substance addiction” (Participant 13). The same theme was supported by another young adult who said
“The society can offer jobs to the young adults and training them with the right skills which can help them
create their own employments and be self-sustaining” (Participant 9). Similarly, the theme was still
echoed by key informant who said “By offering job opportunities, free education and engaging and
equipping them with skills that will make them independent, involving young people in activities which can
make them busy so as to keep their minds busy and educating them on good morals” (KI1). Also, the theme
was emphasized by another key informant participant who said,
“Creation of jobs, making education affordable or free to all, builds recreational facilities, build centres and
hire staff for guidance and counselling services accessible for all. The government should develop an
environment enabling enough for talented young people to earn a decent living through sports. Establishing
programs that can create meaningful engagement between parents and their children. It is also the work of
the government to build rehabilitation centres accessible to all. Further, the government should inculcate in
the education syllabus subjects that enlighten the learners on the dangers of substance abuse. Coming up
with restrictions through the proper legislation the advertisement of potentially addictive substances. It
should also work in improving country’s economy to ensure the citizenry experience less pressure that
would easily lead them to anxiety. Legislative policies that would do away with the forms of discrimination
that potentially disposes one to indulge in intoxicants and promote as well strengthen the social fabric
among families” (KI 4).
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS |Volume VII Issue X October 2023
Page 198
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DISCUSSION
The study was set out to explore strategies to curb substance addiction among emerging adults in Ongata
Rongai Sub County, Kenya. Almost all the participants identified guidance and counselling as a strategy to
curb drug and substance abuse among the young adults in sub-urban families. Government has a
responsibility of creating rehabilitation centres to offer counselling to young adults with problem of
substance abuse. Parents have a responsibility to bringing up their children in responsible manner. The
society need to play a significant role in mentoring young people and guiding them in their daily lives. The
findings were in agreement with the findings of Kumpferet al.(2014) who found family therapy to be proven
effective strategy to enhance family functioning among suburban families. This intervention can help family
members to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and build stronger relationships. The therapist works
with the family members to identify their strengths and weaknesses, set goals, and develop strategies to
achieve those goals. Family therapy has been shown to reduce substance use and improve mental health
outcomes.
Moreover, the findings were supported by the findings of National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and
Medicine (2019) which found multidisciplinary approach to be effective strategy to enhance family
functioning among suburban families. This approach involves a team of professionals working together to
provide comprehensive care to families affected by substance addiction. The team may include mental
health professionals, medical professionals, social workers, and community leaders. This approach can
provide a range of services, including counselling, medical treatment, case management, and community
support. A multidisciplinary approach has been shown to improve family functioning and reduce substance
use.
Empowerment of young people with different skills emerged as a theme from the majority of the
participants as one way of preventing young people from abusing drugs. If young people are trained in skills
and have good role models from the society, that can curb them from drug abuse. Empowering young
people with skills provides them with opportunities to have jobs and be able to meet their basic needs. The
findings were in line with the findings Dakofet al.(2015), who found such programs arean effective strategy
to enhance family functioning. These programs aim to improve parenting skills, increase parent-child
communication, and promote positive family relationships. These programs may include topics such as
effective communication, setting boundaries, and managing emotions. Parenting programs have been shown
to reduce the risk of substance use among adolescents and improve family functioning. Also, the findings
were supported by the findings of Aboagye et al. (2021) who found education can be an effective strategy
for improving family function and reducing the risk of substance addiction. Furthermore, the findings
resonated with findings of Ojonuba et al. (2023) in Nigeria who found that parenting skills training was
associated with a decrease in substance use among adolescents.
The findings were also in agreement with the findings of Gikandiet et al. (2021) who found economic
empowerment interventions, such as microfinance and vocational training, can provide families with the
resources and skills they need to improve their economic well-being and reduce financial stress. The study
involved households in two slum areas in Nairobi, and it found that microfinance and vocational training
interventions led to significant improvements in family functioning. The study suggests that economic
empowerment interventions can be an effective strategy for enhancing family functioning in Kenya.
Most of the participants expressed the need to sensitize young people on substance abuse either through
seminars and workshops. The local administration and educators have a responsibility to create self-
awareness to youths on the effects of substance abuse. This awareness creation can play a significant role in
curbing drug and substance abuse among the young people. The finding of this study was in agreement with
findings of Winstanley et al. (2018) who found education and awareness campaigns can be an effective
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS |Volume VII Issue X October 2023
Page 199
www.rsisinternational.org
strategy to enhance family functioning among suburban families. These campaigns can increase knowledge
and awareness of substance addiction, its risks, and its impact on families. Education and awareness
campaigns can also help to reduce stigma and encourage help-seeking behaviours. These campaigns can be
delivered through various channels, including social media, schools, and community centres. Education and
awareness campaigns have been shown to improve family functioning and reduce substance use
(Winstanley et al.2018).
Also, the findings resonated with findings of Khosa et al. (2017) who conducted a study in South Africa on
Ke Moja Program in Gauteng Schools for substance use prevention designed to reduce drug and alcohol use
among young people through education and awareness campaigns. The program provided information about
the consequences of substance abuse and strategies for avoiding addiction. Likewise, the findings were
supported by findings of Omina (2021) who conducted a study in Kenya and found that community
reinforcement and training program was helped to reduce drug and alcohol use among young people. The
program involved working with community-based organizations, schools, and health facilities to deliver
evidence-based interventions that focused on promoting healthy behaviours and discouraging substance
abuse. The program was associated with reduced rates of substance abuse among young people in Kenya.
Almost all the participants indicated creation of jobs to young people as a way of preventing them in getting
to substance abuse. When job opportunities are availed to young people based on their skills and talents,
they are likely not to get involved with drugs and substance abuse. The government can create jobs to young
people by giving the affordable loans with lower interest rates. The findings were consistent with the
findings of Nadkarni et al. (2023) who found that by addressing underlying socioeconomic factors, such as
poverty and unemployment, can improve family function and reduce the risk of substance addiction.
Similarly, the findings were supported by the findings of Okonkwo et al. (2020)who argued that addressing
poverty and unemployment can help reduce the stressors that contribute to substance addiction and improve
family functioning.
CONCLUSION
Guidance and counselling can play a big role to curbing drug and substance abuse among the young adults
in sub-urban families. Government has a responsibility of creating rehabilitation centres to offer counselling
to young adults with problem of substance abuse. Parents have a responsibility to bringing up their children
in responsible manner. The society need to play a significant role in mentoring young people and guiding
them in their daily lives. Empowering young people with skills can provide them with opportunities to have
jobs and be able to meet their basic needs. When job opportunities are availed to young people based on
their skills and talents, they are likely not to get involved with drugs and substance abuse. The government
can create jobs to young people by giving the affordable loans with lower interest rates. Finally, the local
administration and educators have a responsibility to create self-awareness to youths on the effects of
substance abuse. This awareness creation can play a significant role in curbing drug and substance abuse
among the young people.
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prevalence, effects, and associated factors from a cross-sectional study. BMC psychiatry, 21(1), 1-10.
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