Psychosocial Attributes of Substance Abuse Among Adolescents and Young Adults: A Comparative Study of Users and Non-users

BACKGROUND: Substance abuse is one of the major health challenges across the globe. Adolescents are among the most affected. This study aims to examine the reasons for initiation, maintenance of harmful use of substances and abstinence among adolescents and young adults by comparing the users and non-users. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Accordingly, 40 users and 40 non-users of substances, aged 15-24 years were selected through convenient sampling method. RESULTS: It was found that most of the users had initiated substance abuse during 15-18 years of age, with peer influence, curiosity and sense of growing being the major reasons for the same. ‘Feel good’ and socialization were the main reasons for maintenance. The non-users never gave into substances because of personal values, awareness of the impact on health and family values. Both users and non-users had specific personal reasons for their respective behaviors. CONCLUSIONS: Young population would use substance for various psychosocial reasons despite knowing the harmful effects of substance. These findings have specific implications for preventive programs.