Adolescents' understanding and awareness of alcohol misuse and related problems.

Abstract

Alcohol use and heavy drinking are culturally embedded in the experience of adolescence in the western world. Adolescents have been taught about the risks associated with alcohol abuse. Despite this, alcohol misuse still leads to car accidents, drug abuse, sexual experience, delinquency, violence and academic failure. The objectives of this study are to explore the awareness and understanding Maltese adolescents have of alcohol misuse and the associated problems. A descriptive non experimental research design was used to achieve the aim and objectives of this research study. A convenience sample of 50 students was chosen from one of the local colleges. Forty eight students answered a self-administered questionnaire which consisted of closed ended questions which were analysed descriptively and open ended questions which were analysed by using thematic content analysis. Most of the students stated that they are aware of the bad effects of alcohol misuse, and most of them have had educational programs about alcohol drinking and the related problems. The majority of the students answered that these programs were not very effective. In fact some students view alcohol as a solution to adolescents' problems. Peer pressure seems to be the major reason for alcohol drinking. Although the findings of this study cannot be considered conclusive and must be considered with caution in light of its various limitations, it may be considered that adolescents need more effective education about this subject. From the findings of this study recommendations for further education, for practice and for further research were tentatively drawn. Awareness programs should be conducted according to the adolescents' developmental stage. Permitted drinking time in recreational places should be reduced. Further research should be conducted to examine the effect of the educational programs on awareness of alcohol misuse and the related problems.