Marijuana Use and Behavioural Outcomes among Adolescent Youths in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

Abstract

The study investigated the effects of marijuana use on the behaviour of adolescent youths in Ibesikpo Asutan Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. The population consisted of all adolescent youths of the study area. The study purposively adopted 200 respondents as its sample size in view of the non-availability of data on the actual number of adolescents that use marijuana in the study area. Snow ball sampling technique was used in selecting the respondents. A 35-items structured questionnaire was used to measure the substantive issues. Only one hundred and ninety-seven copies of questionnaire administered to 200 marijuana users were found useful. Simple percentages and chi-square statistics (x2) was used in data analysis. Data analysis revealed marijuana use and associated behavioural effects among adolescent youths in Ibesikpo Asutan Local Government. Finding shows a significant association between marijuana use and disrespectful behaviour among adolescents. Equally, a significant relationship between marijuana use and criminal behaviour among adolescent youths was found. Further findings revealed a significant association between marijuana use and financial mismanagement among youths of the study area. The study recommended that parents should be up and doing in the task of care giving to their wards; particularly, being watchful on the company kept by their wards. Campaigns against marijuana use should be incorporated in health education curriculum for primary, secondary, and tertiary institutions with special focus on the nature and consequences of drugs. In the same vein, the fight against drug abuse including marijuana by law enforcement agencies (Nigeria Police Force, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, and the National Agency for Food, Drug Administration and Control) should be intensified. The collaboration of Law Enforcements with traditional institutional structures not just in checking the drug suppliers but also the users could be helpful in this regard.

DOI: 10.5901/mjss.2016.v7n5p349