FACTORS AFFECTING DRUG ADDICTION AMONG MINORS IN BARANGAY TANDANG SORA QUEZON CITY

Abstract

Drug abuse remains one of the most pressing global health concerns, with minors among the most vulnerable groups affected. This study aims to examine the underlying reasons why minors engage in drug use and identify the key factors contributing to drug addiction among them. Specifically, it seeks to assess the sociological, psychological, and socioecological influences on drug dependency and their impact on the well-being of minors in Barangay Tandang Sora, Quezon City. This study employs a descriptive quantitative research design to collect and analyze numerical data in an accessible format. The researchers gathered data from a total of 50 respondents using stratified sampling. The participants were divided into three groups: 20 parents, 20 members of the Barangay Council for the Protection of Children (BCPC), and 10 police officers from the local community. Stratified sampling was utilized to ensure representation from each stakeholder group. A structured questionnaire was the primary instrument used to gather data aligned with the study's objectives. The demographic profile of respondents indicated that 56% were female, 44% were male, and 24% were aged over 50. Most respondents (38%) held a college degree and were married, while the longest recorded service duration among respondents ranged from 17 to 20 years. Strong agreement was noted across respondents regarding the impact of sociological, psychological, and socioecological factors on drug addiction among minors. The most commonly identified issues included academic difficulties and the recurrence of offenses, primarily attributed to the lack of effective rehabilitation programs. Notably, 80% of respondents emphasized the need for accessible counseling and mental health support as a top intervention priority. The findings of this study identify key risk factors associated with drug addiction among minors in Barangay Tandang Sora, Quezon City. Based on the results, the study recommends enhancing rehabilitation efforts, initiating community-based prevention programs, promoting parental education, and proposing policy reforms to strengthen law enforcement and intervention measures. These recommendations aim to mitigate the incidence of drug addiction among minors and foster a safer, healthier environment for the youth.