Dr Jibril Abdulmalik, a Consultant, Adolescent psychiatrist University College Hospital, (UCH), Ibadan, said on Tuesday that parental neglect and peer pressure were some of the factors responsible for drug abuse in adolescents.
Abdulmalik made this disclosure in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Ibadan.
“Family background, where there is very little love and affection or where the young persons feel neglected as well as strong peer pressure determine whether they will turn to drug or not.
“Adolescents generally are very sensitive to peer group influence and desire social acceptance from their peers,” he said.
According to Abdulmalik, other common risk factors for adolescent drug abuse included: low self esteem and self control poor community networks or social support.
Others he listed were: “Need to fight always, overcrowded neighbourhood and availability of drugs.
The psychiatric expert said that the prevalence of drug abuse was high among youths today, because in cities, street corners and motor packs were common sites for obtaining drug supplies.
He also noted said that alcohol, cannabis syrup with codeine were common drugs usually heavily abused by young adults these days.
The consultant said that it was most unfortunate that some of young and popular musicians also release albums which promote use of drugs.
Abdulmalik further said that every young person, regardless of socio- economic status or religious standing of parents, might be at risk of drug abuse.
He advised parents and care givers to realise that abuse of drugs remained a risk and so they should endeavour to scrutinise the type of company their children keep.
The medical practitioner urged parents to also keep an eye on the conduct and movement of their children at any time of the day.
“Adult caregivers should try to maintain an open, non-judgmental and confidential relationship with their children or wards, so that they can confide and trust them.
“They should patiently engage and point out errors of judgment to them instead of getting mad at them.
“School management should also ensure their environment is a drug-free zone and where children can learn and study without hazards of drug abuse.”
Abdulmalik, who said that every adolescent was at risk of drug abuse, called on stakeholders to join hands in fighting drug abuse among youths.