Causes of Drug Abuse among Secondary School Students in Kericho District, Kenya

Abstract

This study aimed to determine the causes of drug abuse among secondary school students in Kericho District. In this study, a questionnaire and an interview schedule were used as research instruments. The questionnaire targeted secondary school headteachers, teachers and students. The interview schedule was formulated for headteachers only. Using questionnaires administered to headteachers, teachers, and students, and interviews with headteachers, the study gathered data from a stratified sample of 20 headteachers, 101 teachers, and 300 students. Stratified and systematic random sampling selected respondents from 60 schools (56 public, 4 private). Findings revealed that key causes of drug abuse include idleness, mass media influence, peer influence, frustrations, and lack of parental care. Additional factors identified were easy access to drugs through school workers, peddlers, and local markets, as well as adolescent vulnerabilities like emotional instability. The study concludes that these multifaceted causes drive drug abuse, necessitating comprehensive interventions. Recommendations include enhancing guidance and counselling, increasing parental involvement, and regulating drug availability near schools. This study provides a foundation for addressing the root causes of drug abuse, promoting improved discipline and learning environments in Kericho District schools.