Knowledge and attitude on factors influencing substance abuse and its ill effects among higher secondary students

Substance abuse among adolescents is a growing public health concern. This study aimed to assess the knowledge and attitude of higher secondary students regarding factors influencing substance abuse and its ill effects in a selected school in Coimbatore. A quantitative survey approach with a non-experimental descriptive research design was adopted. The study was conducted at RVS Matriculation Higher Secondary School, Sulur, Coimbatore, with a sample of 60 male students selected through a non-probability convenience sampling technique. Data were collected using a self-administered structured questionnaire comprising demographic details, multiple-choice questions to assess knowledge, and a Likert scale to assess attitude. Ethical approval was obtained, and confidentiality was assured. Findings revealed that 53.3% of students were aged 17-18 years. Most students 78.3% had an average level of knowledge about substance abuse, 15.0% had a good level, and 6.7% had a poor level. Attitude assessment showed that 65.0% had a positive attitude, 33.3% had a neutral attitude, and only 1.7% had a negative attitude. A weak but positive correlation (r = +0.115) was found between knowledge and attitude, indicating that as knowledge increases, students' attitudes toward substance abuse improve. There was no significant association between demographic variables and knowledge and attitude levels. The study concludes that although most students had an average knowledge level and a positive attitude, regarding factors influencing substance abuse and its ill effects. The study findings highlight the need for targeted educational interventions to improve students' understanding further and reinforce positive attitudes, ultimately contributing to substance abuse prevention efforts among adolescents.