The purpose of this research was to find out the effects of substance abuse on antisocial behaviours of youth in Accra. The main instrument used for the collection of data was the survey research method. A simple random sample technique was used in the selection of 100 participants ranging between the ages of 13-24 years using both descriptive and inferential
statistics in analysing data.
Substance abuse has been linked to anti-social behaviours, depression, conduct problems, personality disorders, suicidal thoughts and learning disability. In the USA, males under the ages of 18 years arrested for drug offenses had the highest rate of positive substance tests when compared to young people arrested for other criminal offences. However, a substantial rate of illicit substance use was also found among youth who committed violence and other crimes. It is noted that adolescents who abuse alcohol and other substances usually withdraw from school and community activities thereby depriving their families, friends and communities of the positive impacts they might otherwise have made.
The findings of the research indicated that substance abuse does have a significant influence or effect on anti-social behaviours of adolescents in Accra. Analysis revealed that there is a significant difference between males and females with regards to anti-social behaviours. Moreover, the frequency of substance abuse correlated positively with anti-social behaviours.
It is therefore recommended that counselling departments and clinical psychologists departments should be established in order for young people to seek professional assistance in dealing with strong emotions associated with antisocial behaviours. These departments will enable both counsellors and psychologists to function effectively in helping youth in the country to better handle strong emotions associated with substance abuse and antisocial behaviours, thereby helping them to better cope with peers, friends, family members and he community at large.
Table of Contents
- CHAPTER ONE – INTRODUCTION
- 1.1 Background to the study
- 1.2 Statement of the problem
- 1.3 Purpose of the study
- 1.4 Objectives of the study
- 1.5 Research questions/Hypotheses
- 1.6 Significance of the study
- 1.7 Delimitation/Scope of the study
- 1.8 Limitations of the study
- 1.9 Definitions of terms
- 1.10 Organizations of the study
- CHAPTER TWO - LITERATURE REVIEW
- 2.1 Introduction
- 2.2 Theoretical Framework
- 2.3 Conceptual Framework
- 2.4 Review of relevant and related Studies
- 2.4.1 Gender and substance abuse
- 2.4.2 Substance abuse and adolescent's adjustment
- 2.4.3 Substance abuse and anti-social behaviour
- 2.4.4 Perception of substance abuse
- 2.4.5 Endorsement of substance abuse
- CHAPTER THREE – METHODOLOGY
- 3.1 Research design
- 3.2 Population
- 3.3 Sample and sampling techniques
- 3.4 Instrumentation
- 3.5 Validity
- 3.6 Reliability
- 3.7 Data analyses procedure
- 3.8 Ethical Consideration
- CHAPTER FOUR – DISCUSSION OF RESULTS
- 4.1 Data Presentation and Discussion of Results
- 4.2 Anti-social Behaviors Promotion
- 4.3 Correlation Test
- CHAPTER FIVE - SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Objectives and Key Themes
This research aims to determine the effects of substance abuse on the antisocial behaviors of youth in Accra. The study employed survey research methods with a simple random sample of 100 participants aged 13-24 years. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze the data.
- The relationship between substance abuse and antisocial behavior in youth.
- Gender differences in antisocial behavior among substance abusers.
- The correlation between the frequency of substance abuse and the severity of antisocial behavior.
- The need for increased access to counseling and psychological services for youth struggling with substance abuse and antisocial behaviors.
- The impact of substance abuse on adolescent adjustment.
Chapter Summaries
CHAPTER ONE – INTRODUCTION: This introductory chapter sets the stage for the research by providing background information on substance abuse and antisocial behavior among youth in Accra. It clearly states the problem the research addresses, outlining the purpose and objectives of the study. The research questions and hypotheses are presented, along with the significance of the study and its limitations. The chapter also defines key terms used throughout the research and details the organization of the subsequent chapters, providing a roadmap for the reader.
CHAPTER TWO - LITERATURE REVIEW: This chapter provides a comprehensive review of existing literature related to substance abuse and antisocial behavior, focusing on relevant theoretical and conceptual frameworks. It examines studies on gender differences in substance abuse, the relationship between substance abuse and adolescent adjustment, and the link between substance abuse and antisocial behavior. The review also explores perceptions and endorsements of substance abuse, creating a solid foundation for the research by synthesizing existing knowledge and identifying gaps in the literature that the current study aims to address. The chapter's structure and in-depth analysis are crucial for situating the current research within a larger body of scholarly work.
CHAPTER THREE – METHODOLOGY: This chapter meticulously details the research design, population, sampling techniques, and instrumentation used in the study. It explains the procedures employed for data collection and analysis, emphasizing the statistical methods used. The chapter also addresses issues of validity and reliability, ensuring the rigor and trustworthiness of the research. The attention to ethical considerations underscores the responsible conduct of the research, guaranteeing that the study adhered to ethical standards in dealing with human participants.
CHAPTER FOUR – DISCUSSION OF RESULTS: This chapter presents and analyzes the findings of the study. It provides a detailed interpretation of the data, linking the results to the research questions and hypotheses presented in Chapter One. The discussion might include statistical analyses, such as t-tests and correlation analyses, demonstrating the relationship between substance abuse and antisocial behavior. It highlights any significant findings and their implications, contextualizing the results within the larger body of literature reviewed in Chapter Two. This detailed analysis forms the basis of the study’s conclusions and recommendations, ensuring a robust presentation of the research findings.
Keywords
Substance abuse, antisocial behavior, adolescents, Accra, youth, gender differences, correlation, counseling, psychological services, survey research, descriptive statistics, inferential statistics.
Frequently Asked Questions: Comprehensive Language Preview
What is the overall purpose of this research study?
This research aims to determine the effects of substance abuse on the antisocial behaviors of youth in Accra, Ghana. It investigates the relationship between substance abuse and antisocial behavior, considering gender differences and the correlation between frequency of substance abuse and severity of antisocial behavior. The study also highlights the need for increased access to counseling and psychological services for affected youth.
What are the key themes explored in this research?
Key themes include the relationship between substance abuse and antisocial behavior in youth; gender differences in antisocial behavior among substance abusers; the correlation between frequency of substance abuse and severity of antisocial behavior; the need for increased access to counseling and psychological services; and the impact of substance abuse on adolescent adjustment.
What methodology was used in this study?
The study employed survey research methods with a simple random sample of 100 participants aged 13-24 years. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze the data. The methodology chapter details the research design, population, sampling techniques, instrumentation, validity, reliability, data analysis procedures, and ethical considerations.
What are the main chapters and their respective content?
The study is organized into five chapters. Chapter One provides an introduction, including background, problem statement, objectives, research questions, significance, limitations, and definitions. Chapter Two reviews relevant literature, including theoretical and conceptual frameworks. Chapter Three details the research methodology. Chapter Four presents and discusses the results, including data presentation and statistical analysis. Chapter Five summarizes the findings, draws conclusions, and offers recommendations.
What are the key findings of the study (in general terms)?
The study analyzes the relationship between substance abuse and antisocial behaviors among youth in Accra. Specific findings regarding correlations and gender differences are detailed in Chapter Four. The conclusions and recommendations are summarized in Chapter Five.
What are the keywords associated with this research?
Keywords include: Substance abuse, antisocial behavior, adolescents, Accra, youth, gender differences, correlation, counseling, psychological services, survey research, descriptive statistics, inferential statistics.
What type of data analysis was used?
Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze the data collected from the survey. Specific statistical tests (e.g., t-tests, correlation analyses) are likely employed to assess the relationships between variables.
What is the target population of this study?
The target population is youth aged 13-24 years in Accra, Ghana.
What is the sample size?
A simple random sample of 100 participants was used.
Where can I find more detailed information about the study's results and conclusions?
Detailed results and conclusions are presented in Chapters Four and Five of the full research report. This preview provides an overview and summary.
- Quote paper
- Joseph Wilson (Author), 2015, Effects of Substance Abuse on Anti-Social Behaviors of Youth in Accra, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/941132
