SOCIAL WORK INTERVENTIONS IN THE REDUCTION OF SUBSTANCE ABUSE AMONG YOUTHS IN IBADAN METROPOLIS

Abstract

Social work interventions play a crucial role in mitigating the pervasive issue of substance abuse, offering a comprehensive approach that goes beyond mere treatment. These interventions are designed to address the complex interplay of factors that contribute to addictive behaviors, recognizing that substance abuse often stems from a web of interconnected issues such as socio-economic challenges, mental health concerns, and environmental influences. This study examined the impacts of social work interventions on reduction of substance abuse among youths in Ibadan North local government. The research design is descriptive. Quantitative method of data collection was adopted. A sample of 205 participants was selected using a multistage sampling procedure. A questionnaire focusing on demographic variables, parenting style, and psychological wellbeing was administered to the participants. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson product moment correlation and T-test of independent analysis at 0.05 level of significance. Three hypotheses were tested. The findings of hypothesis one indicated that there is significant impact of social work led prevention on substance abuse [F _(43,826) = 2.792, p<.05]. Test of hypothesis two indicated that there is a significant relationship between evidence base therapies and substance use (r=.328, n=205, p(.000)<.05). Test of hypothesis three indicated that there is a significant difference on the role of social workers in helping youths with substance abuse of the participants based on the mean score (Mean= 14.72, SD=5.45) and (Mean =13.17, SD=4.18). The practical implication of this finding is that, the higher the social work interventions towards substance use, the lower the rate of substance abuse among youths and vice versa. The study suggested that social work interventions should emphasize early identification and prevention initiatives specifically designed for at-risk youths. Utilizing research-based prevention strategies in educational institutions and community centers can lower the probability of substance use initiation. Additionally, programs centered on education, skill enhancement, and resilience-building can empower young individuals to make well-informed decisions and develop the ability to resist peer influence.

Key words: Substance Abuse, Reduction, Social work interventions, Youths, Social worker