Breaking the drugs scourge among Nigerian youths: utility value of the mass media

bibliographic database
Line

Periodical article

Title:	Breaking the drugs scourge among Nigerian youths: utility value of the mass media
Author:	Ogunleye, Foluke
Year:	2006
Periodical:	International Journal of Humanistic Studies
Volume:	5
Pages:	29-39
Language:	English
Geographic term:	Nigeria
Subjects:	youth drug use mass media
Abstract:	This paper argues that youth are at a critical point in the life cycle when they have to make major decisions which have an impact on their future as adults. At this stage in their lives, they are particularly vulnerable to peer pressure and information from the media. Drug abuse is usually peer-induced, and the mass media can be used to direct the attention of youth to the dangers involved in the use of drugs. Research on drug abuse in Nigeria emphasizes the place of cannabis abuse, since it is frequently reported to be associated with drug-induced psychosis. There is a need to provide a strong moral foundation for children and youth at this sensitive period of their life. This entails a re-examination and strengthening of traditional sources of socialization and social control, such as the family, the school, religious institutions and, in particular, the media. Bibliogr., sum. [ASC Leiden abstract]