The Effectiveness of the Project of White Schools Free from Drugs and Vices for Prevention of Substance Abuse Among University Students, Mahasarakham Province, Thailand

Abstract

Background: Adolescent substance use in Thailand is a serious problem that has adverse effects on their physical and mental health and social life. Therefore, there is an urgent need for effective interventions to improve substance abuse outcomes among adolescents. Methods: A mixed-methods research was conducted on 1392 university students in Mahasarakham Province, Thailand, from May to September 2023 to assess the predictors of drug abuse prevention behaviours. Additionally, action research was used to develop and evaluate the project for the prevention of substance use. The data were collected through a self-administered questionnaire. Data were analyzed by SPSS version 25.0. Multiple linear regression analysis and an independent samples t-test were applied to analyze the data. Results: Most students (46.84%) had a moderate level of drug prevention behaviour. Additionally, social support from the university, peer groups, family relationships, and self-control were significant predictors of substance abuse prevention behaviours. In terms of the effectiveness of white school free from drugs and vice, most subjects reported high levels of substance abuse prevention behaviours. The most effective factors in preventing drug abuse and solving drug-related problems included support from the university, friends, family, self-esteem, and stakeholders. Conclusion: Self-control, family relationships, peer group support, and social support from the university were correlated with substance abuse prevention behaviour among university students. The project of White School Free from Drugs and Vices was found to be an effective intervention in preventing substance abuse, encouraging students to promote drug abuse prevention behaviours.