Inter and Intra Personal Factors Associated with Psychoactive Substance Use among Students of Semi Urban Secondary Schools in Southern Nigeria

Abstract

Psychoactive substance use among Nigerian adolescents stems from intertwined intrapersonal factors such as emotional distress and low self-control, and interpersonal factors such as peer influence and family conflict, yet these remain underexplored in semi-urban South-South contexts despite high reported prevalence rates of 30-80% lifetime use. To identify and quantify inter- and intrapersonal factors associated with substance use in these settings, a cross-sectional survey of 1,200 students from 20 semi-urban schools was conducted using multistage sampling, with a modified WHO questionnaire alongside scales for stress, self-esteem (Rosenberg), and peer/family influence. The data were analyzed using SPSS with chi-square tests, correlations, and logistic regression at p<0.05. Current use prevalence was 41.2% (alcohol 19%, stimulants 17%); intrapersonal factors such as stress (OR=3.2, p<0.001) and low self-esteem (OR=2.7, p=0.002) were present in 55% of users, while interpersonal drivers included peer pressure (χ²=28.4, p<0.001, 62% endorsement) and poor parental bonding (OR=2.1); males showed stronger peer links (χ²=9.1, p=0.003), and the regression model (R²=0.35) confirmed a dual-factor interplay. Conclusion: Integrated counseling that targets personal resilience and social networks is vital, and school-based resilience training and family involvement programs are recommended.