Influences of drug misuse on secondary school students' academic performance in Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria

Abstract

The descriptive survey research design was used in this study to look into the effects of drug abuse on secondary school students' academic achievement in Akure. The target schools consisted of five secondary schools which were sampled using a random method. A total of 75 respondents were surveyed from 60 students, 5 principals, and 10 guidance and counseling teachers. To collect primary data for the study, questionnaires and an interview schedule were used. The study took place between 3^rd January and 17^th March, 2021. The data obtained was statistically analyzed using descriptive methods with the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software program. The study found that alcohol (76.7%), followed by tobacco/cigarette (61.7%) was the most commonly abused drug in Akure secondary schools. Drugs were obtained from fellow students and small shops in the school's neighborhood. Peer group influence, drug availability, and a lack of parental care were identified as causes of drug abuse. According to the study, drug and substance abuse among students’ lead to school dropouts, a lack of interest in studying, truancy, health problems, and poor grades. Based on the research findings, it is recommended that schools implement drug policies such as organizing awareness creation about the dangers of drug abuse, bringing parents/guidance to school, and referring students for guidance and counseling. Further research on the involvement of teachers and parents in reducing drug abuse, as well as students' perceptions of school principals' strategies is suggested by the study.