Exploration of the initiation of substance use among Pakistani adolescents: a qualitative approach

Abstract

ABSTRACT Objectives This study aims to explore the risk factors for the initiation of substance use among adolescents in Pakistan. Method A qualitative research design using the triangulation method was employed to explore the risk factors for the initiation of substance use in Pakistani adolescents. For this purpose, a purposive sampling technique was used to recruit study participants. The total number of the sample comprised N = 18 which included mothers n = 6, and substance users n = 12. The sample was recruited from lower, middle, and upper socio-economic classes. A semi-structured theory-driven (bio-psychosocial) self-constructed interview protocol was designed. The whole data was transcribed, translated into English, and analyzed in NVIVO by using deductive thematic analysis. Results The findings of this study revealed three main themes; intrapersonal, interpersonal, and societal. All the main themes have various sub-themes such as anxiety sensitivity, mood deprivation, family conflict, parenting, presence of substance use in the family, easy availability of substance use, academic decline, peer pressure, or rejection respectively. Conclusion The study concluded that not only the sole factor can be responsible for the initiation of substance use among adolescents; interpersonal, intrapersonal, and environmental factors collaboratively play the role in the development of substance use. Moreover, negative evaluation, negligence, and socioeconomic status are also the reason for the initiation of substance use.