Young People Drugs

A DETERMINATION OF THE FACTORS LEADING TO THE INCREASE IN THE NUMBER OF YOUNG PEOPLE
ABUSING PSYCHOACTIVE DRUGS (MARIJUANA AND DIAZEPAM) IN SAKUBVA HIGH DENSITY SUBURB OF
MUTARE CITY.
A determination of the factors leading to the increase in the number of young people abusing
psychoactive drugs (marijuana and diazepam) in Sakubva high density suburb of Mutare city.
INTRODUCTION
Young peoples’ substance abuse has become a major problem facing the world today .These
young people occupy a delicate and sensitive position within the population structure of any
society. For several reasons they are often referred to as the future leaders, but what will become
of the future if many young peoples’ lives lie in oblivion, [ Sheehan1991].The rate at which most
young people are abusing psychoactive drugs is quite alarming. More often than not some might
think that abusing drugs will make them fit into the society or that drugs are a solution to
problems whereas the drugs eventually become the problem [ Kingery 1991].The most popular
drugs of abuse among young people include marijuana ,prescription drugs and alcohol according
to the National Drug Intelligence centre [2008].However no matter what the drug of choice it
is ,young people who fall victim to drug abuse may have trouble finding their identity, building
relationships, skills and becoming emotionally stable Marshal [1983].They may also have
trouble preparing for their future this is because psychoactive drugs affect memory and learning.
Marijuana and diazepam are classified as psychoactive drugs or substances. According to Berns
[2010] psychoactive drugs are chemical substances that crosses the blood brain barrier and acts
primarily upon the central nervous system where they affect brains function .This results in
alterations in perception, mood, consciousness and behavior .To mention one of the drugs of
concern, is marijuana or cannabis also known with other street names such as weed, pot ,ganja,
mbanje among other names .Lawrence [1973] defined it as a mixture of the dried and shredded
leaves ,stems ,seeds and flowers of the cannabis sativa plant with an active chemical known as
THC [Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol].
The other drug of concern is a prescription drug ,diazepam also known as valium and is in the
family of benzodiazepines .According to the International Narcotics Control Board [2003],it is a
drug of abuse and can cause serious addiction .The drug is commonly used to treat anxiety ,panic
attacks ,seizures or insomnia however is being abused www.mind disorders . com.
NKWAZI JANE M Page 1

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The abuse of psychoactive drugs is illegal marijuana continues to be the world’s illicit drug of
choice .It is estimated that there are between 119 million and 224 million users worldwide
according to the UN’s latest report published on June 26 of 2012.From the statistics it is
reviewed that the Pacific Island Palau reported the highest rate with nearly a quarter of people
aged 15-64 smoking pot the previous year.
The initiation of drug use is likely to occur during adolescence. According to the results from the
2010 Monitoring the survey conducted in the United states of America 48.2% of the 12 th graders
reported having used an illicit drug at some point in their lives .The prevalence of health risk
behavior associated with teenage and young adult illicit drug abuse has attracted growing
international recognition especially in Southern Africa .Previous studies among young people in
Zimbabwe have reported lifetime marijuana use of 12.1%.In other setting studies have reported
that marijuana has been a stepping stone towards other drugs , its effects of marijuana vary from
user to user [Harare Global School Based Health Survey 2003] .In addition to this marijuana is
classified as a schedule 1 controlled substance ,henceforth by the federal law it is illegal to
cultivate ,sell or distribute marijuana .
Young people are also resorting to the abuse of prescription drugs such as diazepam. The abuse
of diazepam is steadily increasing and becoming a major public health problem .According to the
Controlled Drugs and Substances Act 1971 it is illegal to possess the drug diazepam without
prescription. The abuse of this drug can be when it is recreational to achieve a feeling of high or
the continued use of the drug long term against medical advice.
Despite all these facts young people are gaining access to these mentioned illegal psychoactive
drugs (marijuana and diazepam).It is therefore against this background that the researcher
intended to carry out a study so as to determine the factors leading to the increase in the number
of young people abusing psychoactive drugs in Sakubva high density suburb in Mutare city.

MUTARE CITY.
BACKGROUND
Located on the east of Zimbabwe is a beautiful town, Mutare city. The city shares its boundaries
with Chimanimani district on the South east, Buhera on the west, Mutasa on the north and on the
eastern part shares the boundary with Mozambique .Mutare city has an approximate total
population of 188 243 people according to the preliminary census [2012] comprising of 88 957
females and 99 286 males .The statistics marks a rapid increase from a population of 170 106
people in 2002. It experiences an annual temperature range of 19 0C and receives annual rainfall
of 818mm. The city is surrounded by a diverse resource base which offers immense
opportunities for investments in a wide range of industrial and commercial activities. Sakubva is
a high density residential suburb found in Mutare city .Sakubva is divided into sections it
consists of five governmental primary schools, three secondary schools and one tertiary
institution .There is one hospital in the area which is called Sakubva district hospital on this
hospital there is also a psychiatric unit which is the only one in Manicaland province.
The problem of substance abuse amongst young people usually starts with smoking cigarettes at
the toilets during school breaks. These young people would then proceed to use drugs such as
alcohol, cannabis and hard drugs [ Berk 2007 ; Donald, Lazarus and Peliwe 2007].In Sakubva
high density suburb most young people are seen at entertainment hubs, frequenting the place
with the intentions of enjoying the drugs or in small groups cuddling .These young people can
mix and mingle either school dropouts or those attending school with no focus of their
future .These young people seem not to be considering the long term effects of these drugs on
their lives. Once these young people are under the influence of drugs they become aggressive
and violent towards their parents, educators, other learners and the community at large .The use
of psychoactive drugs by young people also affects their academic performance, with some of
them dropping out of school adding to the rise in the number of the unemployed in Zimbabwe. In
addition some of the young people are arrested by the police because of their involvement in
criminal offences such as shop lifting and rape. This kind of picture is quite disheartening in
most societies. Young people are mostly looked upon as future generations or even leaders. The
most disturbing issue is the choice of drugs that the young people are abusing which are illegal
and related with several health problems. These psychoactive drugs are marijuana and

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diazepam .It is therefore the purpose of this study to determine the factors leading to the increase
in the number of young people abusing psychoactive drugs in Sakubva high density in Mutare
city.
PROBLEM STATEMENT
The statistics recorded at Sakubva psychiatric unit shows that there has been a marked increase
in the number of young people abusing psychoactive drugs (marijuana and diazepam).From the
year 2010 twenty cases were reported, in 2011 the number increased to forty four cases and in
2012 there was a marked increase with sixty cases being recorded .The cases stated above are the
only ones reported despite the fact that there is quite a considerable number of teenagers and
young people going unreported at the centre .These young people falling victim to drug abuse are
looked upon as future generations or even leaders of any society. However due to drug abuse
they end up suffering from social, mental, and physical health problems.
OBJECTIVES
BROAD OBJECTIVE
 To determine the factors leading to the increase in the number of young people abusing
psychoactive drugs (marijuana and diazepam).
SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES
 To identify the mechanisms of access to the mentioned psychoactive drugs.

 To ascertain the knowledge and practices of young people towards the use of
psychoactive drugs (marijuana and diazepam).
 To establish reasons for abusing marijuana and diazepam among other drugs.

MUTARE CITY.
RESEARCH QUESTIONS
1. How and where do the young people obtain marijuana and diazepam?
2. What knowledge and experience do the young people have on the use of the named drugs
3. Why do young people in Sakubva abuse marijuana and diazepam most?
SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY
It is important to conduct a research study on the abuse of psychoactive drugs amongst

teenagers and young people as this issue does not only affect the user only but the
community at large .Victims of drug abuse may suffer from poor academic performances or
withdrawal from school , delinquency , increased participation in risky behaviors also
depression and personality disorders. In support of this drug abuse has accounted for the
second highest cause of admission at Ingutsheni and Parirenyatwa Annex psychiatric hospital
[MOHCW Statistics 2010].
The findings of this study may help the Ministry of health and child welfare (MoHCW) and
other stakeholders such as the youth development clubs like Youth Alive Zimbabwe in
Mutare to formulate informed health and hygiene educations in relation to the abuse of
psychoactive drugs amongst young people .Also the MoHCW in conjunction with law
enforcement agents such as the police might ensure that the possession of marijuana and
diazepam be considered illegal. In addition might also ensure that diazepam which falls
under prescription drugs be controlled and monitored strictly to avoid abuse .The research
community may be encouraged to develop family therapy and avoid myths that some parents
may not believe that their children can abuse drugs .Finally the research community may also
use literature from this report for further studies related to this topic of drug abuse as well as
generating more research topics related to this project.

MUTARE CITY.
DELIMITATION
The study was carried out in Sakubva high density suburb of Mutare city to young people
between the age range of fourteen and nineteen years of age. Only young people were
included in the study henceforth the findings of this study cannot be generalized to female
young people in other parts of Mutare as conditions may differ. Marijuana and Diazepam
were considered as the psychoactive drugs of concern in the study.
LIMITATIONS
TIME: There was a constraint of adequate time to gather information from the intended study
population since the researcher was at school most of the times than at the district where the
study was undertaken .In trying to overcome this the researcher involved the available
respondents and maximized the time that was available for gathering information.
LIMITED ACESS TO OFFICIAL STATISTICS; The study was limited since the researcher
could not access information from institutions such as the police and the prison. Such
institutions have information on people who have used marijuana in their lifetime and may
have committed crimes under the influence of drugs .In trying to combat this problem the
researcher looked for information from youth organizations such as Simukai and Youth Alive
Zimbabwe who sometimes rehabilitate drug addicts.
LACK OF COOPERATION :Given the nature of the subject of drug abuse especially among
young people ,some respondents were reluctant in providing answers thinking that the
researcher might expose them or is trying to get information for the police .However in
solving this issue the researcher clearly explained to the respondents that the information
obtained from the research was only going to be used for academic purposes only and

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respondents would not even provide their names on any part of the questionnaire and only
those comfortable would answer.
DEFINITION OF TERMS
Adolescent: Refers to a boy or girl between the ages of ten and twenty years of age (WHO).
PSYCHOACTIVE DRUGS: These are chemical substances that cross the brain barrier and
acts primarily on the central nervous system where they affects brain function, resulting in
alterations in perception mood, consciousness, cognition and behavior.
DRUG/SUBSTANCE ABUSE: Is an excessive or improper use of drugs through self

administration for non medical purposes.
DIAZEPAM: Is a benzodiazepine which affects chemicals in the brain that may become
unbalanced and cause anxiety disorders or muscle spasms and sometimes used with other
medications to treat seizures.
MARIJUANA: Is a mixture of the dried and shredded leaves, stems, seeds and flowers of the
cannabis, sativa plant the mixture can be green, brown and or grey in color.
PRESCRIPTION DRUGS: These are drugs instructed by a doctor or medical practioner

authorizing a patient to be issued with a medicine or treatment.
SUMMARY
This chapter provided an overview of the study including the background of the research
problem, and the main aims of undertaking the research .The challenges that the researcher
faced and how they were overcome were also included. This chapter also consisted of
delimitation and definition of important words used in the study. Substance abuse amongst
young people creates a concern among parents, educators and the community at large.

MUTARE CITY.
CHAPTER 2 LITERATURE REVIEW
2.1 INTRODUCTION
In this chapter literature relating to adolescent substance abuse will be discussed .The review
of literature helps the researcher to clearly define the problem into a detailed plan of action .It
also inspire new research ideas and determine gaps in the body of research [Polit,Beck and
Hungler,2004.Information gathered from previous studies was used to provide an
understanding of the factors leading that could be contributing to the abuse of psychoactive
drugs amongst young people.
2.2 PSYCHOACTIVE DRUGS
According to Green (1980) psychoactive drugs are chemical substances that cross the blood
brain barrier and acts primarily upon the central nervous system where they affects brain
function, resulting in alterations in perception, mood, consciousness, cognition, and
behaviour.These substances may be used recreationally to purposefully alter one’s
consciousness and mood that the user may find pleasant such as euphoria or advantageous
such as increased alertness. The abuse of psychoactive drugs entails the excessive or
improper use of drugs by people through self administration for non medical purposes
www.erowid.org/psychoactives .
2.3 HISTORY OF PSYCHOACTIVE DRUGS
Psychoactive drug use dates back to prehistoric times .There is archaeological evidence of
the use of psychoactive substances (mostly plants) dating back at least 10,000 years and
historical evidence of cultural use over the past 5,000 years [Berns 2010].The chewing of
cocal leaves for example dates back over 8000years ago in Peruvian society. Medicinal use is

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one important facet of psychoactive drug usage .However some have postulated that the urge
to alter one’s consciousness is as primary as the drive to satiate thirst hunger or sexual desire.
During the 20th century, many governments across the world initially responded to the use of
recreational drugs by banning them and making their use, supply or trade a criminal offence.
A notable example of this is the Prohibition era in the United States where alcohol was made
illegal for 13 years .However many governments ,government officials and persons in law
enforcements have concluded that illicit drug use cannot be sufficiently stopped through
criminalization .Organizations such as Law Enforcement Against Prohibition (LEAP) have
come to such a conclusion believing the existing drug policies have failed in their intended
goals of addressing the problems of crime drug abuse ,addiction juvenile drug use and
stopping the flow of illegal drug s into the country en.wikipedia.org/…/psychoactive drug .
CLASSIFICATION OF PSYCHOACTIVE DRUGS
Psychoactive drugs can be classified in different ways, such as by the chemical structure, by
common effects, by addiction liability or by Drug enforcement administration schedules.
Below is a table illustrating the classification system by common effects [Insel and Roth
2008].
CLASS EXAMPLES EFFECTS

Stimulants Cocaine, nicotine, Increased heart rate , blood pressure metabolism,
methamphetamine, increased mental alertness
Depressants Benzodiazepines(valium,xanax Reduced anxiety ,mood changes, lowered

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), inhibitions ,impaired muscle co-

barbiturate ordination,reduced pulse rate, drowsiness, loss of
consciousness
Hallucinogen LSD,ketamine,mescaline ,ecsta Altered states of perception and
s sy(MDMA) feeling,nausea,increasedheartrate,derilium,impair
ed motor action
Opiods Heroin,opium,morphine Relief of anxiety and

pain ,euphoria,apathy,drowsiness,confusion ,inabi
lity to concentrate ,constipation
Marijuana Marijuana, hashish Euphoria, slowed thinking, and

and other recreation,time,confusion,anxiety ,impaired
cannabis balance and co-ordination ,increased heart
products
TYPES OF ABUSED SUBSTANCES
Young people abuse both legal and illegal drugs substances .Legal substances are those that are
socially acceptable psychoactive substances [De Miranda 1987],and these include over the
counter and prescription medicines such as pain relivers ,tranquilizers including
benzodiazepines,cough mixtures and slimming tablets [Craig and Baucum 2001].Illegal
substances are those that are prohibited and the use ,possession or trading of these substances
constitute a criminal offence [De Miranda 1987].Such substances include
cocaine ,heroin ,cannabisand morphine among other drugs.
MARIJUANA or CANNABIS
HISTORY OF MARIJUANA
There is evidence that it may have been used as medicine and 2700 B.C in China.There is
extensive documentation of its widespread use for its psychoactive effects in Asia and Africa by
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500 B.C .Later the Muslims readily accepted the drug as a substitute for forbidden alcohol.The
hemp plant was introduced in South America by either Spaniards or African slaves in the early
16th century in 1611 it was brought into what is now the United States by the settlers of
Jamestown,Virginia,who used it solely for its fibers.Thereafter it was widely cultivated for its
fiber and other products until the late 19 th century when it was replaced by superior
substitutes .Today the plant grows almost everywhere in the world .
COMMOM PLACES OF ORIGIN
Marijuana is grown in the US ,Canada ,Mexico,South America and Asia.It can be cultivated in
|both outdoor and indoor settings.
OVERVIEW
Marijuana is a mind altering (psychoactive drug) produced by the canabis sativa plant .Marijuana
contains over 400 chemicals THC ( Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol)is believed to be the main
chemical ingrediant that produces the psychoactive efffects.
STREET NAMES
Aunt mary ,Boom ,Ganja ,Grass,Hash, Mary Jane,Pot ,Smoke ,Weed,Dope,Mbanje and Yerba.
LOOKS LIKE
Marijuana is a dry ,shredded green /brown mix of flowers,stems,seeds and leaves from the
cannabis sativa plant,The mixture typically is green ,brown or gray in colour and may resemble
tobacco.
METHODS OF ABUSE
Marijuana is usually smoked as a cigarette (called a joint ) or in a pipe or bong.It is also smoked
in blunts which are cigars that have been emptied of tobacco and refilled with
marijuana ,sometimes in combination with another drug.Marijuana is also mixed with foods or
brewed as a tea .
EFFECTS OF THE DRUG ON THE MIND

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When marijuana is smoked the THC passes from the lungs and into the bloodstream,which
carries the chemical to the organs throughout the body including the brain .In the brain the THC
connects to specific sites called cannabinoid receptors on the nerve cells and influences the
activity of those cells.Many of these receptors are found in the parts of the brain that influence
pleasure ,memory ,thought ,concentration ,sensory,and time perception and co-ordinated
movement
The short term effects of marijuana include problems with memory and learning ,distorted
perception ,difficulty in thinking and problem solving and loss of cordination.The effect of
marijuana on perception and cordination are responsible for serious impairments in driving
abilities.
Long term chronic marijuana use is associated with amotivational syndrome ,characterised by
apathy ,impairment of jugement ,memory and concentration and loss of motivation,amdition and
interest in the pursuit of personal goals .
High doses of marijuana can result in mental confusion ,panic reactions and
hallucinations.Researchers have also found an association between marijuana use and an
increased risk and ealier onset of schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders especially for teens
that have a generic predisposition.
EFFECTS OF THE DRUG ON THE BODY
Short term physical effects from marijuana use may include sedation ,blood shot eyes ,increased
heart rate ,coughing from lung irritation ,increased appetite and decreased blood pressure.Like
tobacco smokers ,marijuana smokers experience serious health problems such as
bronchitis ,emphysema,and bronchial asthma.Extended use may cause suppression of the
immune system.Because marijuana contains toxins and carcinogens ,marijuana smokers increase
their risk of cancer of head ,neck,lungs and respiratory track.Withdrawal from chronic use of
high doses of marijuana cause physical signs including headache ,shakiness,sweating,stomach
pains and nausea as well as behavioural signs including restlessness,irritability ,sleep difficulties
and decreased appetite.

MUTARE CITY.
USES OF MARIJUANA
Marijuana can be used as medicine.The ancient Greeks and Egyptians used it for ailments ,the
Rastafari religious movement incorporated smoking marijuana into faith as a means of spriritual
discovery.Marijuana dangers and benefits are currently under intense political debate .Since the
1990s more than 12 states legalized marijuana possession for medical purposes . However the
drug remains illegal under the federal law.
Marijuana can also be used for industrial purposes.The plant grown for industrial purpose is
called industrial marijuana or hemp and this has a low concentration of THC .Hemp seeds can be
crushed for oil,food and beauty products. The fibers can be used for paper,sturdy fabric and
rope.Hemp products are legal and are imported from Canada,Russia,China,and other nations that
allow industrial marijuana farming.
DIAZEPAM
Is a benzodiazepine drug which affects chemicals in the brain that may become unbalanced and
cause anxiety.Diazepam is used to treat anxiety disorders ,alcohol withdrawal symptoms or
muscle spasms.It can also be used with other medications to treat seizures
GENDER DIFFERENCES IN DRUG USE AND ABUSE
Men are more likely than women to use ,abuse and be dependant on illicit dugs.Men account for
about 80% arrest for drug abuse violation ,70% of admission for treatment and 65% of drug
related deaths[Insel and Roth 2008].There are also gender differences in why and how young
people use drugs.Young males tend to use alcohol or drugs for sensation seeking or to enhance
their social status , and factors tied to culturally based gender roles.Young males tend to use
drugs to improve mood ,increase confidence,and reduce inhibitions.
Boys are likelier to receive offers to use drugs in public settings ,whereas girls are likier to
receive offers in public settings ,such as frends residence .Adolescent boys and girls share some
protective factors relating to drug abuse including positive family relationships and

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extracurricular activities;religious involvement is protective for both girls but may be more
protective for girls[Insel and Roth 2008].
PREVALENCE OF PSYCHOACTIVE SUBSTANCES USE AND ABUSE AMONGST

YOUNG PEOPLE
A number of institutions gather information about the prevalence and trends of alcohol and other
substance use .These include amongst others The Centre for Addiction and Mental
Health,Canadian Medical Association in Europe,and the United Nations Office and
Crime(UNODC) .Studies on the use of substances among young people have been conducted
throughout the world .An estimated 13 million youths aged 12 to 17 become involved with
alcohol,tobacco and other sustances annually [Lennox and Cecchini 2008].In general tobacco
and alcohol are the most frequent used substances by young people,with cannabis use accounting
for 90% or more of illicit substance use in North America,Australia and Europe [ Alexander
2001]
Furthermore the Canadian Centre on Substance Abuse ( 2002) has conducted a survey which
indicated that the average age for the first users of substances was 12 years .About 64.7% of the
youth in grades 7 to 12 reported the lifetime use of alcohol ,29% cannabis ,43% coccaine powder
and less than 4% other substances.
Studies conducted in the South Africa indicated that the average age of a first time substance
user is 12 years which is similar to the findings in European countries[ Lesly 2008].A survey
conducted in Cape town found that more than 10% of 11 to 17 year olds had been drunk more
than 10 times ( South African Community Network on Drug Use Report).
There is also a considerable abuse of over the counter and prescription medicines such as
slimming tablets ,tranquilizers and cough mixtures .Previous studies amongst young people in
Zimbabwe have reported lifetime marijuana use of 12.1%( Harare Global School based health
survey 2003).
Poly substance abuse remains high in treatment centres [Parry 1998;Plüdderman et al

2007].Many substances users in Zimbabwe are poly substance users that is using various

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substances in combination with alcohol as well as other combinations such as

diazepam .Alcohol ,cannabis,and diazepam were the most common primary substances of abuse
for patients younger than 20 years in most Psychiatric units in Zimbabwe.
According to Pluddermann et al (2007) over 75% of patients younger than 20years are black a
significant increase over previous periods ;88% are male and 12 % are female .About 31% of
patients reported swallowing their substances when alcohol is excluded .Almost 92% report
smoking as their mode of use .
For many youths ,substance abuse precedes academic and health problems including lower
grades ,higher truancy,drop out decisions ,delayed or damaged physical ,cognitive and
emotional development or a variety of other costly consequences [Leenox and Cecchini 2008].
CHAPTER 3 METHODOLOGY
This chapter will describe the design of the study, techniques used to collect, analyze and
present data .A description of the respondents who took part in the study will be given. Also
the validity and reliability of the research instruments will be included and ethical
considerations.
3.1 RESEARCH DESIGN
A descriptive cross sectional survey will be used in the study .This is because it
systematically describes facts and characteristics of given situations .This enables people to

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plan for change if they are not satisfied with the results from the survey .Data were collected
at a single point in time that is during the attachment period. The survey method has many
advantages that one can use other methods at the same time or later to gather data and can
also collect different pieces of information at the same time in a short space time.However
information obtained from surveys is limited to what the respondents is willing or able to
give.
3.2 POPULATION AND SAMPLE
3.2.1 STUDY POPULATION
The study population comprised of 355 young people all being males between the age ranges
of fifteen and twenty four years of age reporting at Sakubva psychiatric unit , also abusing
psychoactive drugs namely marijuana and diazepam amongst other drugs and 1 psychiatric
nurse [Psychiatric unit statistics 2012] .The study population included males only, basing on
the statistics from sakubva psychiatric unit they are the most ones reported and recorded to
be engaging in the abuse of psychoactive drugs .Also judging from the national picture males
within the stated age range are the ones more likely to be engaged in the abuse of
psychoactive drugs .However the researcher excluded females again basing on the statistics
from the psychiatric unit they have not been constantly reported to be engaging in the abuse
of psychoactive drugs in the past years .Also young people below the age of fifteen and
adults above twenty four years of age have not been recruited in the study due to time limits
and resources available.
SAMPLE SIZE DETERMINATION
To come up with a representative sample size from a known population size of 356 the
researcher used a guide adopted from Casley and Kumar (1988:83) .See appendix for the guide.
Casley and Kumar 1988:83 states that the sample size would ultimately be determined by the
population size and the effect of the sample size is recommended at 10% where there is a
population between 200 and 500.
Therefore the sample size was calculated as follows

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10÷100×356people
=35.6 people
=36 people
SAMPLING PROCEDURE
To select subjects for the study convinience sampling which is a non probability sampling
technique was used .The technique was used to select young people abusing psychoactive drugs
as they would come at Sakubva psychiatric unit where the reseacher was attached.That is the
method allows for the selection of subjects that are accessible and within reach of the
researcher.In addition to the above systematic sampling was used to come up with interval x to
select the sampling units.
Therefore x=study population /sample
=356/36
=9.88
=10
From information above it meant that every 10 th person would be picked to be part of the
represeantatives of the study population whereby the first candidate was choosen at random and
thereafter every 10th person would be picked until the desired sample size of 36 peple was
achived.Then purposive sampling was for the selection of the health personnel.The results from
the sampling procedure done are shown in the table below.
Group No of respondents Percentage Sampling procedure

Young people( males) 36 10 Convinience

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Psychiatric nurse 1 100 Purposive
DATA COLLECTION
Data was collected using questionnaire checklists , in-depth interviews were carried out and
records were also reviewed.
DATA COLLECTION TOOLS
QUESTIONNAIRES
Questionnaires were self administered to 36 young people at sakubva psychiatric

unit.Questionnaires were designed to collect information on the knowledge and experiences
that the respondents may have had and the reasons for abusing the mentioned psychoactive
drugs .Questionnaires were used because they offer a high level of anonymity as there was no
writing of names and more information can be obtained especially in the absence of the
researcher .They also cover a large group of people and are relatively cheap to use. However
questionnaires are only limited to literate people and might have difficult in controlling the
persons who completes them .In overcoming this the researcher chose literate respondents
See questionnaire checklist in appendex .
PILOT STUDY
Questonnaires were pretested and tried on to a number of respondents at Sakubva youth

centre because of the similar characteristics with the population under study where young
people are also offered counselling services.The purpose of this was to find out whether the
questions were well presented ,clealy understood,easy to answer and did not cause resistance
henceforth validity and reliability were also checked.The pilot study helped the resercher in
realising that even though young people abuse psychoactive drugs ,they are not free to talk
about about their substance behaviour for example when asked where they bought drugs they
provided brief and vague answers such as “in our neighbourhoods”.Henceforth there was the
need to rephrase the question and ask them to be specific about the place they got the

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drugs .Information gathered in the pilot study was used to modify the tools before conducting
the final study.
INTERVIEWS
Face to face interviews were conducted on the selected health personnel at Sakubva
Psychiatric unit . An interview guide was used during the interview .The researchers main
thrust on the use of an interview was to obtain information on the actual trends of statistics of
young people abusing psychoactive drugs in mutare.Also to find out the problems associated
with the abuse of the mentioned drugs and check whether there are measures that have been
put in place to reduce the problem.In addition ther was need to find out from the
proffessionals the factors contributing to the increase in the number of young people abusing
drugs.Interviews allowed for clarification and repetion of some informatipn from the
questionnaire.Assurance was given to the respondents that their right to privacy and
confidentiality was to be observed and by no names were going to be included in any part of
the data collected.
VALIDITY
This refers to the meaningfulness and appropiateness of the intepretations to be made from
research results .It involves the review of each question and checking each question what it
should measure Brink (1996).It is determined by how the results of the research relate to the
effect it was intended to measure.The reseacher tested the validity of the instruments during
pilot testing .Simple language was used and technical jargon was avoided as it would lead to
misinterpretation of the instruments .Use of questionnaires also increased validity because
they offer participants anonymity thus leading to more honest answers.
RELIABILITY
This refers to the consistency with which the researchgives the same or similar results to the
same group at any given time .Efforts were also made by the reseacher to make the data
gathered using the mentioned research instruments more reliable. Field testing was done to
ensure repeatability which is the ability to produce results that are closely similar each

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time .This was important given the situation and fact that instruments were used to gather
data from subjects from Psychiatric unit to respondents from different age groups. Questions
were also analyzed to ensure that they were not leading as this would influence the
participants’ response and give untrue results.
DATA PRESENTATION AND ANALYSIS
Tables, graphs, and pie charts were used in the presentation of data. The purpose of this was
to make data usable and easier to interpret into meaningful information that could be used to
identify findings and make appropriate recommendations. Also non statistical methods were
used to analyze, such as narrative data since most of the data was qualitative in nature.
ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS
Consent: The researcher sought for consent of the respondents to participate in the research
study. As such during data collection participants were made aware of the objectives of the
study and were free to choose whether to participate or not.
Permission: In order to carry out the research study in Mutare city in Sakubva the researcher
applied for Permission in writing to the Town Clerk of Mutare city and all other authorities
under whose jurisdiction the sampling units were found.
Privacy and Confidentiality: Subjects identities were protected by making sure that no names
were included in any part of the research. Participants were given explicit assurance that any
information that they communicate was confidential and data would be used for academic
purposes only.

MUTARE CITY.
SUMMARY
In this chapter the writer discussed the research design, sampling procedures and also gave a
full explanation of the research instruments used .In addition to this validity and reliability of
the research instruments was explained with the ethical considerations to be observed.
CHAPTER FOUR DATA PRESENTATION AND ANALYSIS
4.1 INTRODUCTION
This chapter covered data presentation and analysis of the findings from the study of
determining factors contributing to the increase in the number of young people abusing
psychoactive drugs in Mutare .Data was presented in the form of graphs,tables and pie
charts .Findings from the study that is from the 36 questionnaires administered and one
interview conducted were interpreted using simple narrations and descriptive statistics since
data was mostly qualitative in nature.
Bio-social information
Age distribution

MUTARE CITY.
Table 4.1 age group distribution
Age group Number of respondents Percentage

15-19years 22 61
20-24years 14 39
From the table shown above it shows that a greater number of 61% constituted the
respondents between 15 and 19 years of age. Then 39 % constituted respondents between 20
and 24 years of age.
Educational Qualifications
Figure 4.2 educational qualifications

MUTARE CITY.
70
60
50
40
respondents
percentages
30
20
10
0
ordinary level advanced level diploma level degree level
N=36
As shown on the table above 67% of the respondents reached ordinary level whilst 16
percent reached advanced level,11 % diploma level and lastly only 5% reached degree level.
Religion

MUTARE CITY.
80
70
60
50
40 no of respondents
percentage
30
20
10
0
Christianity Islam Rastafarian Others
N=36
According to the graph above out of the 36 respondents a total of 28 people fall under the
christianity religion and under lslam there was only one respondent ,then 2 under rastafarian
sect and finally 5 did not fall in any of the mentioned type of religion .

MUTARE CITY.
Occupation
Employment status
no of respondents
full time part time self employed unemployed
3%
6%
11%
81%
N=36
From the findings shown above out of the 36 respondents 29(81%) are unemployed ,with 4
(11%) being self employed,2(5%) had some part time jobs and finally only 3% were full time
employed.
Family structure

MUTARE CITY.
Family type No of respondents percentages

Nuclear 17 47
Single parent 8 22
Child headed 5 14
Extended 6 17
N=36
The table above shows that 17 respondents out of 36 come from nuclear families where both
parents are around and 8 had single parents, then 5 were from child headed families finally 6
respondents came from extended families such as those with grandmothers, fathers, aunts and
uncles.
Findings

MUTARE CITY.
Question 1.Have you ever used any of these psychoactive drugs?
Marijuana
no of respondents
Yes No
8%
92%
N=36
From the table above it is shown that a greatest number of respondents have been exposed or
have used marijuana in their lifetime and only 8% have not used any it.
Diazepam

MUTARE CITY.
no of respondents
Yes No
44%
56%
N=36
The pie chart drawn above indicates that 56% of the respondents have used diazepam in their
lifetime whereas 44% denied the use of diazepam.
2. How old were you when you started using drugs?

MUTARE CITY.
Graph showing time of use of drugs.
no of respondents
20
18
16
14
12
no of respondents
10
8
6
4
2
0
13-15 years 16-18 years 19-21years
n=36
It is shown that most of the respondents that is 19 out of the 36 started using drugs between the
ages of 16 and 18 years of age ,followed by 12 respondents who started when they were
between 13 and 15 years of age. Finally a few respondents started the use of drugs when they
were between 19 and 1 years of age.
3.Who introduced you to drugs?

MUTARE CITY.
no of respondents
family friends
33%
67%
n=36
Information from the above table shows that more often than not people who abuse drugs are
first introduced by friends .67 % of the total population said that they were introduced to drugs
by friends and 33% by some family members.
4a.How often do you use marijuana?

MUTARE CITY.
The use of marijuana .
no of respondents
30
25
20
no of respondents
15
10
0
everyday every 2-3 days once a week every fortnight
n=36
Information from the above table shows that young people are abusing psychoactive drugs .From
the responses that the researcher got most of the young people use marijuana everyday that is 26
people out of the 36 respondents. Then 8 agreed to the use of the drugs every 2 to 3 days ,finally
only 1 respondents use drugs once a week and the other one every fortnight.
4b.How often do you use diazepam?

MUTARE CITY.
Diazepam use
no of respondents
30
25
20
no of respondents
15
10
0
every day every 2-3 days once a week every fortnight
n=36
From the graph shown above 24 young people use marijuana everyday ,9 use it after every 2-3
days ,then 3 respondents agreed to the use of marijuana once every week .Lastly no respondents
agreed to the use of diazepam once every fortnight.
5.With whom do you take drugs with?

MUTARE CITY.
no of respondents
30
25
20
no of respondents
15
10
0
friends
family
members alone
n=36
The above table shows that most young people take drugs in company of their friends with27
people out of the 36 respondents agreeing to the taking drugs with friends then 6 abuse drugs
alone with only 3 taking drugs with some family members.
6. For what reasons do you take psychoactive drugs?
Reasons for abusing drugs No of respondents Percentages %

Peer pressure 29 81
To experiment 12 33
To deal with school 22 61
To ease frustration 7 19
Easy availability 19 53
To feel high 15 42
Because of Rastafarian beliefs 4 11

MUTARE CITY.
The table above shows the main reasons why young people abuse or take psychoactive
drugs .From the 36 respondents who stated their reasons for drug abuse it has been shown that 29
respondents who constituted 81% inclined to peer pressure as the main cause for drug abuse.
Again out of the 36 respondents 22(61%) said they abuse drugs so as to be able to deal with
school.15(42%) respondents testified to the urge of feeling high with the drugs ,19(53%) young
people established the reason of availability ,that is easy access of the drugs. In addition to the
above 12(33%)respondents wanted to experiment,7(19%)wanted to ease their frustration and
finally 4(11%)did abuse drugs because of some Rastafarian beliefs. Conclusively information
from the above table shows that not only one factor does lead a person to drug abuse but two or
three factors can contribute.
7.How do you access these drugs?
Means of access No of respondents Percentage

Over the counter 1 2
Other patients 2 6
Health personnel 9 25
From the streets 24 67
N=36

MUTARE CITY.
8.Have you ever committed a crime under the influence of marijuana or diazepam?
no of respondents
Yes No
44%
56%
n=36
9.Do you smoke marijuana as part of your religious ritual?
no of respondents
yes no
25%
75%

MUTARE CITY.
10.Which behavioral change takes place when you smoke marijuana or take diazepam?
Behavioral changes No of respondents Percentages

Become aggressive 13 36
Become abusive 3 8
Use obscene language 4 11
Get into fights 7 19
Miss school 9 25
N=36
11. Which of the following have been affected or is affected by your use of diazepam or
marijuana?
40
35
30
25
20 no of respondents
percentage
15
10
0
health school personal relationship relationship
safety with friends with family
n=36

MUTARE CITY.
12.What are the consequences of abusing these named drugs that you know?
Consequences of abusing drugs No of respondents Percentages

Euphoria
Anxiety
Addiction
Red eyes
Getting high
Increased appetite

Young People Drugs

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A DETERMINATION OF THE FACTORS LEADING TO THE INCREASE IN THE NUMBER OF YOUNG PEOPLE

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 To identify the mechanisms of access to the mentioned psychoactive drugs.

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SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

It is important to conduct a research study on the abuse of psychoactive drugs amongst

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DRUG/SUBSTANCE ABUSE: Is an excessive or improper use of drugs through self

PRESCRIPTION DRUGS: These are drugs instructed by a doctor or medical practioner

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CHAPTER 2 LITERATURE REVIEW

2.2 PSYCHOACTIVE DRUGS

2.3 HISTORY OF PSYCHOACTIVE DRUGS

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CLASSIFICATION OF PSYCHOACTIVE DRUGS

CLASS EXAMPLES EFFECTS

Depressants Benzodiazepines(valium,xanax Reduced anxiety ,mood changes, lowered

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), inhibitions ,impaired muscle co-

Opiods Heroin,opium,morphine Relief of anxiety and

Marijuana Marijuana, hashish Euphoria, slowed thinking, and

TYPES OF ABUSED SUBSTANCES

COMMOM PLACES OF ORIGIN

EFFECTS OF THE DRUG ON THE MIND

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EFFECTS OF THE DRUG ON THE BODY

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GENDER DIFFERENCES IN DRUG USE AND ABUSE

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PREVALENCE OF PSYCHOACTIVE SUBSTANCES USE AND ABUSE AMONGST

Poly substance abuse remains high in treatment centres [Parry 1998;Plüdderman et al

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substances in combination with alcohol as well as other combinations such as

3.1 RESEARCH DESIGN

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3.2 POPULATION AND SAMPLE

3.2.1 STUDY POPULATION

SAMPLE SIZE DETERMINATION

Therefore the sample size was calculated as follows

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Therefore x=study population /sample

Group No of respondents Percentage Sampling procedure

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Psychiatric nurse 1 100 Purposive

DATA COLLECTION TOOLS

Questionnaires were self administered to 36 young people at sakubva psychiatric

Questonnaires were pretested and tried on to a number of respondents at Sakubva youth

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DATA PRESENTATION AND ANALYSIS

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CHAPTER FOUR DATA PRESENTATION AND ANALYSIS

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Table 4.1 age group distribution

Age group Number of respondents Percentage

Figure 4.2 educational qualifications

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