Socio-contextual factors and adverse childhood experiences as determinants of substance use disorder among individuals between ages 18-40 years in Kano, Nigeria

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background There is a paucity of literature on the connection between Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), certain socio-contextual factors, and substance use disorder (SUD). Therefore, this study aimed at investigating the socio-contextual factors (gender, age range, educational levels, and types of settlement) and ACEs as determinants of SUD among individuals between the ages of 18-40 years in Kano, Nigeria. Methods This study used a pack questionnaire containing socio-contextual information, a 10-item Revised Inventory of Adverse Childhood Experiences, and Drug Abuse Screening Test-20 to collect data from 599-participant. Results Findings showed a high (55.3%) severe SUD (addiction problem) among the participants. Individuals with a history of ACEs (parental neglect, sexual abuse, physical abuse, and emotional abuse) scored more on SUD compared with their other counterparts. Moreover, male respondents scored higher on SUD than their female counterparts. Participants with a low level of education scored higher on SUD compared with secondary and tertiary certificate holders. However, types of settlement were not related to SUD. Conclusions Gender, age-range, educational levels, and ACEs are determinants of SUD among participants. Policymakers should organize programs that could ameliorate ACEs and low education. Also, emerging adults and males should be psycho-educated and trained to reduce substance use problems.