Peer Pressure, Alcohol Use and Drugs Abuse on Anti-Social Behaviour among Youths in Makurdi Metropolis, Benue State

Abstract

This research examined the influence of peer pressure, alcohol use and abuse on antisocial behaviour among youths in Makurdi Metropolis, Benue State. 200 youths drawn from undergraduate students of Benue State University Makurdi. The participants ranged from 18–30 years. Data was collected on the basis of peer pressure inventory, alcohol problem index and antisocial behaviour questionnaire. Four hypotheses were tested using standard linear regression, standard multiple regression and independent T-test. The results showed that peer pressure significantly influenced alcohol use and abuse among youths in Makurdi Metropolis, Benue State [F (1,198) = 4.359; p< .001]. Alcohol use significantly influenced antisocial behaviour [F (1,198) = 6.411; p< .01]. Alcohol use and peer pressure was found to significantly predict antisocial behaviour [F (2,197) = 387.361; p< .001; R = .954, R 2 = .730]. The result showed gender differences among youths on alcohol consumption [t (1,198) = -3.242 p< .01]. It was established that peer pressure and alcohol use significantly influences antisocial behaviour among youths in Makurdi Metropolis, Benue State. It was therefore recommended parents watch, caution and educate their children on who to go out with. Also, laws be enacted to curtail excessive alcohol consumption among youths.