Thesis (M.Sc.) - Cairo University - Faculty of Nursing - Department of Family Health Nursing

Substance abuse is a rising community health problem especially among adolescents throughout the world. Studies for risk factors for substance abuse need to be frequently updated to refurbish the prevention and management treatments on a scientific basis. Aim: To assess the risk factors for adolescents{u2019} substance abuse. A descriptive research design was utilized. Setting: The study was conducted at the outpatient clinic of Helwan Mental Health Hospital (Adolescent addiction clinic). Sample: A convenience of adolescents (N=83), who attended the previously mentioned setting. Tools of data collections: Questionnaire for adolescents about Risk factors for substance abuse. It consists of 85 questions and includes two parts: part (A)-Demographic characteristics and adolescents{u2019} experiences with substances and Part (B)- Risk factors for substance abuse among adolescents. Results: The current study revealed that 92.8 % of the adolescents were males while 7.2 % were females. 5.97% of adolescents aged from 16 years to 18 years with a mean age and standard deviation 16.33± 1.24 years. Regarding the age of starting substance abuse, 43.4 % of the adolescents started at 14 to less than 16 years with a mean age and standard deviation of 13.63± 1.76. In addition, 71.1 % of the adolescents have a smoker among their families, while 33.7% have a member who uses substances among their families. 100 % of the adolescents have smoker friends and 97.6 % of their friends are using substances. Recommendation: Educational programs about risk factors for substance abuse should be given to both parents and adolescents at schools, family health centers, and any Family Reunion places.

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