Substance Abuse and Vulnerable Factors: A Study of Rural Punjab, India

Background: Rapid social transitions and economic instability increase stress, making people vulnerable to these factors. Substance abuse worked as a coping mechanism to manage emotional distress or social pressure. It is influenced by a range of individual, social, and environmental factors. Aim: This study aims to explore the key factors influencing substance abuse intensity among respondents. Methods: Study was conducted on 240 respondents selected from eight government de-addiction centres across four districts (Tarn Taran, Patiala, Moga, and Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar) from three cultural zones of the state through purposive sampling. Data were collected through a structured interview schedule. Exploratory Factor Analysis and Principal Component Analysis (EFA and PCA) identified predictors, while ordinal logistic regression quantified impact. Results: Study found that younger respondents (16-25 years), those with high impulsivity, had a family history of substance abuse and neglectful parenting. Other vulnerable factors included peer pressure, easy accessibility to substances, unemployment, and lower socio-economic status. Conclusions: Peer influence and parenting style emerged as the strongest predictors, while socio-economic status had a lower but notable impact. Identifying the key predictors of its intensity is essential for developing targeted interventions. The findings underscore the importance of comprehensive strategies focusing on high-risk individuals and socio-environmental factors to curb substance abuse.