The Psychosocial Effects of Substance Abuse on the Nuclear Families in Dagoretti South Sub-county, Kenya

Abstract

I was interested in this topic because, although substance is regarded both as an unfortunate recreational side effect, and as a harmful delinquent deviance, its underlying impacts affect not only the individual, but also family in various ways that will be highlighted in the study. The objective of the study was to better understand the psychosocial impacts of drug addiction on families, and how the family adapts, copes and helps rehabilitate those who engage in drug and substance abuse. It also looked at reasons why some individuals are prone to drug and substance abuse, and what motivates people to abuse drugs. The research showed which drugs were most popular, the substance abuse effects, as well as family perceptions of substance misuse in general The study looked at several theories (Reinforcement theory, Anomie and Ecological theory) that could be applied to explain drug and substance abuse, each focusing on different aspects including other factors that may influence substance abuse. The study used descriptive survey design combining quantitative and qualitative approaches. The research targeted individuals above 21 years and had family members who engaged in substance abuse in Dagoretti south sub-county. Questionnaires were used for data collection, the SPSS Version 25 was used to analyse and summarize the data. Based on the findings, the study concluded that family members are aware of the effect substance abuse has on family, alcohol being the most abused at a percentage of 57.8%. The research concluded that increased stress, financial problems, physical and verbal assault, loss of trust, arguments between family members, fear of being attacked, loss of property, confusion on how to act around family member abusing drugs and other family members being introduced to substance abuse were some of the effects substance abuse had on family. The study recommends a united approach by the government, the media, the community, church, schools and families to aid in reducing substance abuse among the people in the society by for example providing recreational groups/ activities, providing affordable rehabilitation, guidance and counselling centers, monitoring of advertisements.