The Hidden Drivers of Substance Abuse: Understanding the Role of Childhood Trauma, Peer Influence, and Emotional Dysregulation among Adolescents in Lagos State, Nigeria
Keywords:
Childhood maltreatment, peer influence, emotional dysregulation, substance abuseAbstract
This study explored the relationship between childhood maltreatment, peer influence, emotional dysregulation, and substance abuse among in-school adolescents in Lagos State, Nigeria. A descriptive survey design was employed, and three Local Government Areas (LGAs) Mushin, Agege, and Ikorodu were purposively selected based on their high population density and prevalence of socio-economic challenges. The study targeted adolescents aged 13 to 19 years currently enrolled in public secondary schools within these LGAs. A total of 150 adolescents participated, with 50 selected from each LGA using snowball sampling. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire that assessed demographic information, childhood maltreatment (using the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire – Short Form), peer influence (via the Peer Group Influence Scale), emotional dysregulation (measured by the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale), and substance abuse (using the CRAFFT Screening Tool). The instruments were validated by experts and showed strong internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha > 0.75) in a pilot test. Data collection occurred over three weeks, with ethical clearance obtained from the Lagos State Ministry of Education. Informed consent was obtained from parents or guardians, and assent was secured from participants. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, Pearson’s Product Moment Correlation, and Multiple Regression Analysis in SPSS version 26. The study found significant relationships between childhood maltreatment, peer influence, emotional dysregulation, and substance abuse among adolescents, highlighting the importance of these factors in understanding adolescent substance use. The findings suggest the need for targeted interventions that address these psychosocial factors to prevent and reduce substance abuse among adolescents in Lagos State.