A Study to Assess the Effectiveness of Self-Instructional Module on Knowledge Regarding Substance Abuse and Its Complications among Adolescents of Selected Schools at Udaipur, Rajasthan

Abstract

Introduction : Substance abuse, characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use despite harmful consequences, poses significant health risks and disrupts functioning. Adolescence, a vulnerable period due to ongoing brain development, increases susceptibility to experimentation. Research indicates high rates of underage substance use, with alcohol, cannabis, and opium being prevalent. Treatment-seeking data show a concerning percentage of children affected. The WHO predicts a substantial rise in substance abuse-related deaths by 2020. Methodology : This study employed a quantitative evaluative research approach and utilized a one-group pre-test post-test research design to assess the effectiveness of a self instructional module on adolescents' knowledge regarding substance abuse and its complications. The sample consisted of 120 adolescents aged between 13-17 years, selected using non-probability convenient sampling from schools in Udaipur, Rajasthan. Data was collected through a structured questionnaire. Results : Results indicated that prior to the intervention; the majority of respondents (90%) had inadequate knowledge, while 10% exhibited moderately adequate knowledge. Following the intervention, a significant improvement was observed, with 68.33% of respondents displaying moderately adequate knowledge and 25% attaining adequate knowledge. The mean knowledge score increased from 7.37 to 14.05, with a corresponding rise in mean percentage from 36.83% to 70.25%. The calculated t-value of 17.578 was significantly higher than the critical value of 1.984 at 0.05 level, demonstrating a significant difference between pre-test and post-test knowledge scores. Conclusions : In conclusion, the self-instructional module successfully enhanced adolescents' understanding of substance abuse and its complexities, as demonstrated by notable improvements in knowledge scores between pre-test and posttest assessments. Moreover, the impact of demographic variables underscores the necessity for personalized approaches in combating substance abuse among youth.