Socio-Demographic Effects of Substance Abuse Among Adolescents in Kokona LGA, Nasarawa State, Nigeria

Abstract

Substance abuse among adolescents remains a critical public health concern in Nigeria, with significant implications for social and developmental outcomes. This study examined the socio-demographic effects of substance abuse among adolescents in Kokona Local Government Area (LGA), Nasarawa State. A cross-sectional survey design was employed involving 400 adolescents aged 10–19 years selected through [insert sampling technique]. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using Chi-square (χ²) test of independence to examine the relationship between socio-demographic factors (such as age, sex, and family background) and substance abuse among adolescents. while SPSS Version 26.0 Findings revealed that socio-demographic variables such as age, gender, educational level, peer influence, and family socio-economic status significantly influenced substance abuse patterns (p < 0.05). Substance abuse was found to adversely affect academic performance, increase school absenteeism, and contribute to behavioral and psychological problems among adolescents.
The study concludes that socio-demographic factors play a significant role in shaping substance abuse behaviours and outcomes. It recommends targeted interventions focusing on adolescents’ social environments and strengthening preventive health education programs.