Srinagar, Jun 17 (KNO): A comprehensive research study conducted by the District Institute of Educational Research and Training (DIET) Srinagar has highlighted alarming trends related to drug and substance abuse among secondary and higher secondary school students in the district, underscoring the urgent need for stronger prevention and intervention measures within educational institutions.
The study, titled "Drug and Substance Abuse in Secondary and Higher Secondary School Students of District Srinagar – An Empirical Study for Prevention and Intervention", and accessed by the news agency - Kashmir News Observer (KNO), examined the awareness, causes, prevalence, and impact of drug abuse among adolescents and proposed school-based strategies to tackle the growing menace.
Researchers noted that drug and substance abuse has emerged as one of the most serious social challenges globally and that Kashmir has not remained untouched by this disturbing trend. Despite efforts by parents, teachers, religious leaders, and community stakeholders, the problem continues to pose significant risks to the younger generation.
The research was conducted among students of Classes 9th to 12th across 10 secondary schools and 10 higher secondary schools in Srinagar, equally representing boys' and girls' institutions. Out of a total student population of 7,552, a sample of 3,100 students was selected through random sampling. Data was gathered through structured questionnaires administered to students, teachers, and Heads of Institutions (HOIs), and subsequently analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS).
The findings revealed notable disparities in awareness levels between boys and girls. Less than half of the female students surveyed were aware of the causes and consequences of drug abuse, whereas around 68 per cent of boys demonstrated awareness regarding the issue.
The study further found that awareness levels varied across different localities of Srinagar. Among boys, 53 per cent from uptown areas and 58 per cent from downtown areas reported awareness about drug and substance abuse. Among girls, awareness levels stood at 41 per cent in uptown schools and 48 per cent in downtown schools.
Educational streams also influenced awareness levels. Science students, both boys and girls, were found to possess a greater understanding of the causes and harmful effects of drug abuse compared to their counterparts studying humanities and commerce subjects.
One of the most significant findings of the study was the overwhelming role of peer influence in encouraging substance abuse. Among male students studying in secondary schools, 46 per cent identified peer pressure as the primary reason behind drug use, while the figure rose to 68 per cent among higher secondary students. Other contributing factors cited by boys included curiosity, thrill-seeking behaviour, emotional stress, and experimentation.
Among female students, peer pressure also emerged as the leading factor, with 38 per cent of secondary school girls and 43 per cent of higher secondary girls identifying it as a major cause. Academic stress and pressure to perform were also cited as important factors contributing to vulnerability among girls.
While only a small proportion of students admitted to personally consuming drugs, the study revealed that a much larger number were aware of classmates or acquaintances involved in substance abuse. Around 25 to 27 per cent of male students and between 5.8 and 12 per cent of female students stated that they knew other students who were using drugs, suggesting that substance abuse may be more prevalent than direct admissions indicate.
The research also identified the substances most commonly associated with drug abuse among adolescents. Tobacco products, including cigarettes, emerged as the most frequently abused substance among both boys and girls. Among boys, tobacco use was followed by substances such as morphine, opium, and bhang. Female respondents similarly identified tobacco, opium, and bhang as the most commonly abused substances among students.
Another major concern highlighted by the study was the lack of awareness regarding treatment and rehabilitation services. Nearly 69 per cent of boys and 74 per cent of girls reported that they were unaware of any organisation, institution, or agency providing treatment, counselling, or rehabilitation support for individuals suffering from drug addiction.
The study concluded that many students possess inadequate knowledge about the dangers of drug abuse and its long-term consequences. It also found evidence suggesting the availability and use of narcotic substances among school-going adolescents, coupled with limited awareness about support systems available for recovery and rehabilitation.
In light of these findings, the researchers have recommended the integration of comprehensive drug prevention and awareness programmes into the regular school curriculum. The proposed action plan calls for strengthening student engagement within schools, enhancing counselling services, promoting life-skills education, involving parents and communities, and creating sustained awareness campaigns aimed at preventing substance abuse before it takes root.
The study stresses that schools must play a central role in combating the growing threat of drug addiction and that early intervention, awareness, and support mechanisms are essential to safeguarding the future of Kashmir's youth—(KNO)