Posts Tagged identification of factors

The factors that influence drug abuse have been discussed at length. There are a number of factors that act as RISK FACTORS increasing the risk of drug abuse by pushing the individual towards it. But there are also more than a few PROTECTIVE FACTORS which do just the opposite. Various studies have identified specific individual and environmental factors that have a risky or protective influence, but they are not exhaustive or absolute. What might be risk for one may not be risk for another. But identification of the factors is an absolute necessity to prevent youngsters from abusing drugs

Individual Level
Risk Factors

• Excessive dependency, over protectiveness, poor social skills, low self esteem, physical and mental problems, willingness to take risks for the sake of new sensation and thrills.
• Poor performance in school, aversion towards school, school dropout.
• Early exposure to substance use.
• Lack of religious beliefs. 
• Having a positive view about substance use behavior.

Protective Factors

• Independence and ability to cope with stress, good social skills like problem solving, decision making, interpersonal skills, good temperament and personality e.g. optimism, intellectual competence, understanding of different aspects of life, empathy, self esteem, a positive goal in life along with determination and perseverance to achieve the goal.
• Positive attitude towards school, good academic performance, appreciation, involvement in extra-curricular activities.

Family Level

Risk Factors

• Broken family, poor parenting skills, substance abuse by a parent/sibling, violence, rejection, basic needs unfulfilled due to extreme economic deprivation.

Protective Factors

• Healthy bondage among family members that fosters care and support, few stressful events.
• Effective parental skills, proper monitoring, inculcating a positive value system.
• Fulfillment of basic needs.

Community Level

Risk Factors

• Lack of healthy recreational facilities, peer using substances, lack of school values, high rate of unemployment, lack of proper laws pertaining to drug use.
• Easy availability of substances.

Protective Factors

• Availability of healthy recreational activities, employment opportunities, favorable peer group, positive value reinforcing norms.
• Effective policies and laws to limit availability of substances.