Intent to abuse addictive substances in regions with serious drug abuse among early adolescents

Abstract

Background: The intentions to use addictive substances among early adolescents residing in geographic areas characterised by severe drug abuse remain poorly understood due to a lack of sufficient research attention.Methods: We assessed participants (N = 217) in grades 5 and 6 in Yunlin County, where severe drug abuse is common. Self-reported data were acquired via questionnaires.Results: Only perceived behavioural control was found to have an effect on addictive substance use intentions. The subject norms and attitude behaviours concerning addictive substances had small, but positive effects, on perceived behavioural control.Conclusion: Our findings suggest that, in high-drug abuse areas, prevention programmes aimed at early adolescents should focus on improving perceived behavioural control. Such interventions may increase adolescents’ likelihood of refraining from drug use while decreasing drug exposure channels.