The readers should be able to:
o Describe substances that are abused by adolescents.
o Give reasons why adolescents engage in substance abuse.
o Assess the effects of each of the substances on the adolescent.
o Analyze the impact of substance abuse on the family and the nation.
o Suggest ways of avoiding substance abuse.
o Explain Female Genital Mutilation.
o Analyze the problems associated with FGM.
o Suggest measures to stop the practice of FGM.
o Explain Sexual Orientation
o Examine masturbation as a problem among adolescents.
o Examine the practice of occultism and its consequences.
Substance Abuse
Substance abuse is the use of natural or chemical substances for purposes other than medical which may result in impaired mental, physical or social well-being of the person.
The drug or substance may be addictive. The abuse is related to a number of different drugs or substances.
Common substances abused: cigarettes, alcohol, Marijuana/wee, cannabis, cocaine, heroin, LSD, pep-pills, glue/paints.
Drug Abuse
Drug abuse is also related to different drugs that are taken without them being prescribed by the doctor e.g., anaselgic drugs which are usually advertised or peddled, sleeping pills and anti-depressants. These are over the counter drugs".
Classification Of Substances (Drugs)
i. Sedative-Hypnotics
The drugs most commonly abused in this class are the barbiturates. Barbiturates are also known as depressant drugs; they include phenobarbitone, amytal, Seconal and luminal. These drugs are prescribed as sleeping tablets and also together with other medications to prevent epileptic seizure. Barbiturates are common drugs of abuse.
Effects on user
o They produce symptoms similar to drunkenness: loss of shyness, overexcited or violent behavior, unsteadiness and depression.
o They are physically addicting and produce severe withdrawal symptoms; overdoses can cause profound shock, coma, or death.
ii. Stimulants
A stimulant is any drug that excites the central nervous system, increases alertness, and alleviates fatigue. Caffeine is perhaps the most socially acceptable and commonly used stimulant. Other stimulants include cocaine and amphetamines, which create intense feelings of euphoria (well-being).
Cocaine is an alkaloid and is obtained from leaves of the coca plant. It is used medically as a local anesthetic. It is also widely abused as a drug. Cocaine is dangerous because it is very addictive.
Amphetamines are powerful stimulant drugs that act on the central nervous system (the brain and the spinal cord), increasing heart rate and blood pressure while reducing fatigue. They are widely used as slimming pills and stimulants.
Effects on user
1. Excessive intake of caffeine has been identified as a possible cause of cancer or of birth defects. Persons who stop drinking coffee do sometimes experience withdrawal headaches.
2. Serious mental illness including suspicion, delusions, hallucinations, and violent behavior may occur after prolonged use of cocaine and amphetamines.
3. The use of cocaine and amphetamines may produce withdrawal from reality and the tendency to commit suicide.
4. Chronic use of cocaine may cause perforation of the septum of the nose, weight loss, and damage to the nervous system.
5. Chronic use of amphetamines reduces appetite, this may lead to drastic weight loss, resulting in a skinny, wasted appearance.
iii. Cannabis
The plant Cannabis sativa is the source of both marijuana and hashish. Both drugs are usually smoked. Their effects are similar: a state of relaxation, accelerated heart rate, perceived slowing of time, and a sense of heightened hearing, taste, touch, and smell. A cause for concern is the regular use by children and teenagers, because intoxication markedly alters thinking and interferes with learning.
Effects on user
1. Cannabis acts on the nervous system and can damage the brain.
2. Serious mental illness including suspicion, delusions, hallucinations, and violent behavior may occur after prolonged use.
3. The drug removes the desire to work to enhance oneself.
iv. Opioids
This class includes drugs derived from opium, such as morphine and heroin, and synthetic substitutes such as methadone.
Medically, morphine is a potent pain reliever; morphine and other opium derivatives also suppress coughing, reduce movements of the intestine (providing relief from diarrhea). Heroin is synthesized from morphine and is used as a cough suppressant and no addictive substitute for morphine. It is normally injected either directly into the blood stream or under the skin. It either be swallowed or sniffed as a powder.
Effects on user
1. Symptoms of
withdrawal from opioids include kicking movements in the legs, anxiety,
insomnia, nausea, sweating, cramps, vomiting, diarrhea, and fever.
2. Excessive usage causes chronic constipation and
loss of interest in food and sexual activity. In women excessive usage disrupt
the menstrual cycle.
3. High cost of obtaining drugs leads to crime and violence
4. Users are also exposed to HIV and Hepatitis as a result of sharing
common needles.
5. Chronic use results in death due to damage to the brain, heart and
kidneys.
v. Inhalants
This class includes substances that are usually not considered drugs, such as glue, gasoline, and aerosols like nasal sprays. Most such substances sniffed for their psychological effects depress the central nervous system.
Effects
on user
1. Low doses can produce slight
stimulation, but higher amounts cause users to lose control or lapse into unconsciousness.
2. Low doses may also cause
headache, nausea, and drowsiness.
3. Sniffing inhalants can impair vision, judgment, and muscle
and reflex control. Permanent damage can result from prolonged use, and death
can result from sniffing highly concentrated aerosol sprays.
4.
Continued
sniffing of these easily obtainable substances can damage the circulatory
system and have related harmful effects.
Reasons Why Adolescents Engage in Substance Abuse
1. Curiosity: Adolescents may experiment with substances out of curiosity to understand their effects. This exploratory behavior can lead to substance abuse as they seek to experience the highs or sensations associated with different drugs.
2. Peer Influence: The pressure to conform to peer group norms is a significant factor. Adolescents may use substances to fit in with their friends or to be accepted within their social circles, especially if their peers are engaged in drug use.
3. Feeling of Frustration: Substance abuse can be a coping mechanism for dealing with feelings of boredom, frustration, or fatigue. Some young people turn to drugs with the belief that these substances will alleviate their emotional distress or provide a sense of escape.
4. Study Enhancement: Students sometimes abuse substances, such as stimulants, with the hope that these drugs will improve their concentration, cognitive function, and ability to study for extended periods.
5. Performance Enhancement: Athletes may misuse substances, such as performance-enhancing drugs, in an attempt to boost their athletic performance, strength, or endurance, believing that it will give them a competitive edge.
6. Ignorance: Lack of awareness about the harmful effects of substances can lead to abuse. Some adolescents might not fully understand the risks and long-term consequences of drug use, leading them to engage in substance abuse.
7. Overcoming Nervousness: Individuals who experience shyness or nervousness, particularly in social situations or public speaking, might use substances to reduce their anxiety or boost their confidence temporarily.
8. Rebellion: Substance abuse can be a form of rebellion against perceived parental control or authority. Adolescents might use drugs as a way to assert their independence and resist parental expectations or interference.
9. Parental Influence: In some cases, parental behavior and attitudes towards substance use can influence adolescents. If parents model or tolerate substance use, their children may be more likely to engage in similar behaviors.
10. Lack of Leisure Activities: A lack of engaging and constructive leisure activities can lead adolescents to seek out substances as a means of entertainment or distraction, filling the void left by unfulfilled free time.
11. To Feel Good: The desire for pleasure or a sense of euphoria can drive adolescents to use substances. They may seek the immediate gratification and positive feelings that drugs can provide, despite knowing the potential risks.
For more information on addressing and preventing substance abuse among adolescents, visit National Institute on Drug Abuse’s prevention resources
General
Effects of Substance Abuse on Adolescents
(i)
Violence: Substance abuse can lead to rampant deviant behavior such as
violence, disrespect, stealing, armed robbery and other social vices.
(ii)
Damage to brain and other organs of the body: Substance abuse can
destroy a healthy body and brain. It may lead to mental defects such as madness
e.g., Alcohol and cannabis have effects on the human brain which can lead to
madness and other abnormal behavior such as shouting and fighting.
(iii)
Reduces thinking ability: Substance abuse undermines academic ability
and performance of the adolescent in the long run. It reduces the mental
efficiency of the adolescent and his ability to memorize and recall what he has
learnt or studied.
(iv)
Behaves irrationally or abnormally: Substance abuse may lead to the
adolescent behaving abnormally at his work place or in school. Substance abuse
at the work place reduces
productivity
and increases job-related accidents. In school it leads to a breach or breakdown
of school discipline.
(v)
Body becomes immune to drugs: Substance abuse can lead to a situation
where the body becomes immune to the drug and therefore making the drug
ineffective in the cure of particular diseases.
(vi)
Drain on finances: Substance abuse can serve as a major drain on the
personal income for adolescents who indulge in it. This is because substances
such as cocaine, cannabis and heroine are very expensive.
(vii)
Social stigma on the abuser.
(viii)
It affects general health e.g., leading to nutritional deficiency.
Impact of Substance Abuse on the Family
1. Waste of Family Financial Resources: Substance abuse often leads to significant financial strain on families. The cost of medical treatments, rehabilitation, and ongoing support for the addict can deplete family resources. Additionally, addicts may resort to stealing or selling family possessions to fund their addiction, further exacerbating financial difficulties.
2. Feeling of Insecurity: Family members may experience heightened feelings of insecurity and danger due to the behavior of the substance user. The individual may become unpredictable or violent, potentially harming others or engaging in criminal activities such as theft or armed robbery, which can directly impact the safety of the household.
3. Feeling of Disappointment: Families, particularly parents, often feel profound disappointment when reflecting on the resources and effort invested in raising the individual. The divergence from expected behavior and the resultant strain can lead to a sense of failure and frustration.
4. Social Stigma: Families dealing with substance abuse may face societal stigma and judgment. This social disapproval can lead to feelings of shame and isolation, as the family is perceived as failing to properly integrate a member into society.
5. Sorrow and Emotional Distress: The emotional toll on the family is significant. Concern and sorrow over the affected member's condition can lead to ongoing stress and unhappiness, impacting the overall well-being of family members.
For more insights into the effects of substance abuse on families and available support resources, visit National Institute on Drug Abuse’s family resources.
Impact of Substance Abuse on the Nation
1. Reduction in Human Resources: Substance abuse can significantly reduce the available workforce, as many individuals affected by addiction are in their productive age group. This decline in labor participation can lead to lower overall productivity and economic growth.
2. Allocation of National Resources: Resources that could be used for national development are often diverted to address substance abuse. Funds are spent on healthcare services, rehabilitation programs, and social support for individuals struggling with addiction, which could otherwise be used for infrastructure, education, and other developmental needs.
3. Decreased Workforce Productivity: Substance abuse leads to a decrease in the productivity of the workforce. Nonproductive behavior associated with addiction can lead to absenteeism, decreased work performance, and higher turnover rates, which adversely affects economic output.
4. Economic Burden: The economic burden of substance abuse includes costs related to treatment and prevention programs, lost productivity, and associated criminal activities. These financial strains can hinder national development and affect overall economic stability.
For more information on the broader societal impacts of substance abuse and strategies for mitigating its effects, visit World Health Organization’s resources on substance abuse.
Ways to Avoid Substance Abuse
1. Choose Friends Wisely: Adolescents should carefully select their friends, as peer influence can significantly impact their behavior. Parents should take an active interest in knowing their children’s friends and their activities.
2. Join Youth Clubs: Encouraging adolescents to join organized youth groups, such as Catholic Youth Organizations (CYO), Boy Scouts, Girl Guides, and similar clubs, can provide positive social interactions and constructive activities.
3. Develop Hobbies and Participate in Sports: Engaging in hobbies and sports can keep adolescents occupied and focused on positive activities, reducing the likelihood of succumbing to peer pressure related to substance abuse.
4. Learn to Say 'No': Adolescents should be taught and empowered to confidently say 'no' to drugs and other harmful substances, equipping them with the skills to resist peer pressure.
5. Educate on Drug Abuse: Comprehensive education about the effects and dangers of drug abuse should be provided to adolescents, helping them understand the serious consequences of substance use.
6. Parental Involvement: Parents should remain actively engaged in their children's lives, including being aware of their social circles and activities, to better guide and support them.
7. Establish Effective Communication: Maintaining open and honest communication between parents and children is crucial. This helps build trust and ensures that adolescents feel supported and understood.
8. Build Self-Confidence: Adolescents should work on building strong self-confidence and self-esteem. Loving and protecting oneself is a key factor in resisting negative influences and making healthy choices.
9. Seek Guidance and Counseling: Adolescents should be encouraged to seek guidance from trusted adults, such as teachers, religious leaders, parents, and mature friends, to gain support and advice.
10. Avoid Involvement in Drug Procurement: Parents and adults should refrain from involving adolescents in buying or handling drugs, as this can expose them to drug use and related risks.
For more strategies on preventing substance abuse and promoting healthy behavior among adolescents, visit National Institute on Drug Abuse's prevention resources.
Measures to Control Drug Abuse in Ghana
To effectively control drug abuse in Ghana, a collaborative approach involving the government, parents, religious and opinion leaders is essential. Here are some key measures that can be adopted:
1. Impose Sanctions and Punishments: Implementing severe sanctions and punishments for individuals caught abusing drugs such as cocaine, cannabis, and heroin can serve as a deterrent. Strict enforcement of penalties will discourage drug use and trafficking.
2. Provision of Improved Health Services: The government should enhance healthcare facilities and services across the country. This includes addressing illegal drug peddling and ensuring that health services are accessible and effective in treating drug abuse and its consequences.
3. Intensify Education: Raising awareness about the dangers and effects of drug abuse is crucial. Educational campaigns should be intensified using mass media, including posters, films, and social media. Religious and community leaders should also engage in educating their members about the risks associated with drug use.
4. Institute Strict Regulations and Laws: Enforce stringent regulations and laws related to drug trafficking and abuse. Strong legal frameworks and rigorous enforcement are necessary to reduce the incidence of drug abuse and dismantle drug trafficking networks.
5. Educate Students: Targeted education programs should be implemented in schools to inform students about the dangers of drug abuse. Health workers and teachers can play a vital role in delivering this education and equipping students with the knowledge to make informed decisions.
For more information on effective strategies and initiatives to combat drug abuse, visit United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) resources.
Understanding Female Genital Mutilation (FGM)
Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), also known as female circumcision, is a serious cultural issue in various regions, including parts of northern Ghana. FGM involves the partial or complete removal of the clitoris and sometimes other parts of the female genitalia. This practice is often rooted in cultural, traditional, or religious beliefs but has severe health and psychological consequences for those affected.
FGM is recognized as a human rights violation and has been condemned by numerous international organizations for its harmful impact on women's health and well-being. Efforts are ongoing to eradicate this practice through education, advocacy, and legislation.
For more information on the impacts and ongoing efforts to end FGM, visit UNICEF's resources on female genital mutilation.
REASONS WHY PEOPLE
PRACTICE FEMALE GENITAL MUTILATION
The reasons often
advanced in favor of this cultural practice are that:
(i) It reduces the
intensity of the sex drive in women thus making them less promiscuous.
(ii) It reduces or
curtails pre-marital sex in the society by suppressing the sex urge of girls.
(iii) It aids child
delivery among women.
(iv) It reduces infidelity
or unfaithfulness among women in the marital home.
(v) It promotes cultural
identity.
(vi)
Penetration of the vagina by the penis during sexual intercourse is easier if
the clitoris is not there.
(vii)
Removing the clitoris allows free outflow of urine.
(viii)
It perpetuates male chauvinism.
Types
Of Female Genital Mutilation
There
are four main types of female genital mutilation or cutting. These are:
i.
Clitoridectomy: This refers to the partial or total removal of the
clitoris.
ii.
Excision: This is the most common type practiced in Africa. Here both
the clitoris and all other parts of the labia minora (the inner lips) are cut
off leaving the vagina exposed and not covered.
iii.
Infibulation: This type involves the removal of the clitoris, labia
minora and labia majora. This is narrowing the vaginal opening through the
creation of a covering seal. The two sides or surfaces are stitched or joined
together to form a closure of the whole vulva. A small hole is left to allow
the flow of urine and menstrual blood.
iv.
Other: All other manipulations of the female genitalia or any other
harmful procedures to the female genitalia. e.g., introduction of substances or
herbs into the vagina to cause bleeding or to tighten or narrow the vagina. Others
include pricking, piercing, incising, scraping, etc.
Dangers
or Health Implications of Female Genital Mutilation
(i)
It causes pain and shock on the victims
(ii)
It can lead to the spread of diseases from one person to another due to the
nature of the tools used and the ignorance on the part of those who administer
it about its medical implications. For example, it can lead to the spread of
AIDS.
(iii)
Female circumcision reduces the level of enjoyment of sex in women in their
marital homes. This sometimes leads to marital failure.
(iv)
Female circumcision further creates complications during child birth. For
example, it can result in severe bleeding during child birth.
(v)
Painful menstruation and urinary complications and make child birth difficult.
(vi)
It can cause infertility.
Measures
To Stop Female Genital Mutilation
(i)
To control female circumcision, societies which practice it as part of their
culture should be educated on its dangers.
(ii)
Also, laws against the practice should be promulgated and strictly enforced.
Offenders of such laws should be
severely punished or fined to deter others from practicing female
circumcision.
(iii)
Parents should be educated and
enlightened on the implications on their girl child and why they should
protect them.
(iv)
Communities should also be discouraged from abusing uncircumcised girls.
(v)
Parents who encourage or allow their children to be circumcised should be
punished severely.
(vi)
Practitioners should be encouraged to find more healthy alternatives for the
rites of passage to womanhood.
Sexual
Orientation
Sexual
orientation refers to a person's erotic, romantic, or affectional attraction to
the other sex, the same sex, or both.
Types
Of Sexual Orientation
(i)
Heterosexual or straight - a person who is attracted to the other or
opposite sex.
(ii)
Homosexual - a person attracted to the same sex. E.g., gay is often
applied to men, whereas the term lesbian is applied to homosexual woman.
(iii)
Bisexual - a person attracted to both male and female.
(v)
Transsexual - is a person whose sense of self is not consistent with his
or her anatomical sex e.g., a person whose sense of self is female but who has
male genitals.
Causes
of Sexual Orientation
(i) It is believed to be genetic or hormonal.
(ii) Financial pressures may compel
individuals to practice it.
(iii) It is believed that it doesn't lead to
pregnancy and STDs/HIV AIDS.
(iv) It is also said that sexual orientation
develops because of a person's environment.
Consequences
Of Sexual Orientation
(i)
It could lead to HIV/AIDS particularly in males because of exchange of body
fluids.
(ii)
It is culturally unacceptable in Ghana. e.g., homosexuality
(iii) Some of the sexual orientations are
condemned by society.
Solution
to Unacceptable Sexual Orientation
(i)
Society should not condemn but try to encourage them to change.
(ii)
Religious organizations e.g., churches and mosques should preach against such
practice.
(iii)
Legislation could be passed by the
government to make such a practice illegal.
Understanding Masturbation
Masturbation is the act of stimulating one's own genitals through various methods, such as fondling, rubbing, stroking, or pressing, with the goal of achieving sexual arousal or orgasm. This personal sexual activity is a common and natural behavior among individuals, and it can be part of normal sexual health.
For more information on the physical and psychological aspects of masturbation, you can explore resources like Planned Parenthood’s guide on masturbation.
Causes
of Masturbation
(i)
Late marriage resulting from not having a steady partner.
(ii)
Believe by people that it prevents HIV/AIDS.
(iii)
Reading pornographic materials and watching pornographic films.
(iv) The adolescent having fantasies about
real or imaginary sex.
(v)
Peer pressure or influence.
Effects
Or Consequences of Masturbation Positive Effects
(i)
Medically it is believed to be a healthy sexual expression if it does not lead
to addiction.
(ii)
Protect against prostate cancer for males.
(iii)
Release sexual tension of adolescents.
(iv)
Helps adolescent to understand his/her own sexual desires.
Negative
Effects
(i)
Feeling of guilt and embarrassment.
(ii)
Bruising the genital organ leading to serious infection if not managed properly
(iii)
Medically associated with premature ejaculation.
(iv)
Becomes a habit which cannot be broken.
Understanding Occultism
Occultism refers to a range of beliefs and practices that involve the use of magic or supernatural forces. This can include rituals, symbols, and esoteric knowledge aimed at influencing or harnessing unseen powers or events. Occult practices often explore mystical or hidden aspects of existence that are not typically understood through conventional means. These beliefs can encompass a variety of systems, including astrology, alchemy, divination, and ritual magic, often with the goal of achieving personal transformation or understanding hidden truths about the universe.
For more insights into the complexities of occult beliefs and their impact, visit Encyclopedia Britannica’s overview on occultism.
Reasons
For Practicing Occultism
(i)
Confused identity of the adolescent.
(ii)
Alienation from friends and families.
(iii)
Weak cultural, religious, community and family ties.
(iv)
Feeling of powerlessness.
(v)
For the adolescent, they perceive the practice as a way of gaining certain
status through becoming rich.
(vi)
Because they have needs that are not being met.
(vii)
Gain a set of understanding and ethical system as a guide to behaviour.
(viii)
Psychological problem of experiencing a feeling of rootlessness, emptiness and
feeling of powerlessness.
Effects
of Occultism
1. Human Sacrifices: Participation in occult practices can sometimes involve extreme actions, such as human sacrifices. This disturbing aspect of occultism can lead to severe ethical and legal consequences, as well as profound psychological damage.
2. Substance Abuse: Engagement in occult activities may be linked to substance abuse. Individuals might use drugs or alcohol to alter their consciousness or as part of ritualistic practices, which can lead to addiction and other health issues.
3. Disruption of Family Ties: Occult involvement can strain family relationships. The secrecy, conflicting beliefs, and practices associated with occultism can create rifts between individuals and their families, leading to isolation and family breakdowns.
4. Sexual Immorality: Occult practices may involve or promote sexual immorality. This can manifest in various forms, including illicit sexual activities and exploitation, often as part of ritualistic ceremonies or personal beliefs.
5. Distance from Spiritual Beliefs: Engaging in occult practices often leads individuals away from traditional religious beliefs. This can bring them into contact with demonic cults or forces, distancing them from their spiritual roots and exposing them to harmful spiritual influences.
6. Emotional, Spiritual, and Mental Impact: The involvement in occultism can have a detrimental effect on an individual's emotional, spiritual, and mental well-being. This may include increased anxiety, depression, confusion, and a general sense of spiritual disconnection.
For more information on the psychological and social impacts of occult practices, you can explore resources such as Psychology Today’s article on occultism.
Role
Of the Family Towards the Fight Against Occultism
(i)
Families should be alert of the dangers of occultic practices especially during
the early stages of adolescent's involvement.
(ii)
Must be prepared to frankly and honestly discuss with adolescent's involvement
in occultism.
(iii)
Parents should interact with adolescents to get to know them better and observe
any changes that may come in them.
Role
of Society, Counselors, Teachers and Religious Leaders Towards the Fight
Against Occultism
(i)
Counselors, teachers, etc. should provide necessary information on the effects
of occultism on the adolescent.
(ii)
Civic organizations and government agencies must be enlisted and be prepared to
help adolescents or youth
to
overcome their development crises in more acceptable ways.
(iii)
Schools i.e., teachers should be alert to sudden changes in the behavior of
their students and intervene as quickly as possible.
(iv) Religious organizations must organize programs geared towards meeting the spiritual needs of the adolescents.
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