Assessment of Alcohol and Substance Use among Undergraduates in Selected Private Universities in Southwest Nigeria

Adekeye, Olujide A and Adeusi, Sussan O and Chenube, Olufunke 0 and Ahmadu, Frederick O. and Sholarin, M. A. (2015) Assessment of Alcohol and Substance Use among Undergraduates in Selected Private Universities in Southwest Nigeria. IOSR Journal Of Humanities And Social Science, 20 (3). pp. 1-7. ISSN 2279-0845.

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Abstract

Introduction: The use of alcohol dates back to time immemorial. The use of alcohol and other substances such as cannabis, nicotine, ecstasy and other amphetamines among students in tertiary institutions is widespread. Use of alcohol and other substances has negative effects both on its user and the society at large; hence, the urgent need to identify factors that contribute to the continued use of these drugs Methodology: 431 students between ages 15 and 25 (n=431, mean=18.7 (+1-2.3 years) were randomly selected from four private tertiary institutions in Southwest Nigeria. An adapted and validated version of the World Health Organization (WHO) questionnaire on drug use surveys was employed for data collection. Data collected were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: Amongst the respondents, cigarette smoking (81%) and alcohol (72%) use had the highest prevalence followed by use of coffee, energy drinks and kolanut (69%). Past and current use of alcohol occurred more among the males. There was no significant contribution of parental use (/] = -.145; t = 1.81 3; p>O. 05) and peer influence (/] = 0. 006; t = 0.164; p>O. 05) on student's use of alcohol, however, age (/] = -. 338; t = 4./40; p<O. 005) was a strong predictor of students use of alcohol and other substances. Conclusion: There is need for urgent public health preventive intervention on our campuses. More educational campaigns on the negative consequences of alcohol and substance use is advocated. The use of alcohol and other substances poses a grave challenge to the future of our future generations. It should be discouraged by all.

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Alcohol, substance use, universities, young people, Nigeria
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology
Divisions:	Faculty of Law, Arts and Social Sciences > School of Social Sciences
Depositing User:	Mrs Hannah Akinwumi
Date Deposited:	12 Mar 2015 02:01
Last Modified:	12 Mar 2015 02:01
URI:	http://eprints.covenantuniversity.edu.ng/id/eprint/3851

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