JOURNAL OF LIAONING TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY

PARENTAL ATTACHMENT, MONITORING, AND EARLY SUBSTANCE USE AMONG ADOLESCENTS IN SOUTH-WEST NIGERIAN REHABILITATION CENTERS

OYINLOYE, Mojirade Adeola, Prof. AINA, Joseph Oyeniyi, OLUWASANMI, Gladys Obiageli, BANKOLE, Adelola Mojisola, IMOLUAMEN, Grace Titilayo

Abstract

To reduce the steady increase of substance use among adolescents, the need to examine underlying factors within the family context cannot be ignored for preventive strategies and addressing adolescent substance use. This study therefore examined parental attachment, monitoring, and early substance use among adolescents in South-West Nigerian rehabilitation centers. This study employed a cross-sectional descriptive design to examine family dynamics and substance use among adolescents in rehabilitation in South-West Nigeria. Using Cochran’s formula, a sample of 129 adolescents was selected from seven rehabilitation centers via probability sampling. A structured questionnaire assessed demographics, family relationships, and substance use patterns. Data were collected over six weeks and analysed using SPSS 27, employing descriptive and inferential statistics. Finding revealed that parent-child attachment/conflict (r= -.461, p<.01), and parent monitoring/support (r= -.482, p<.01) negatively and significantly related with early onset of substance use among adolescents in selected rehabilitation centers. The study found a high prevalence of substance use disorder among adolescents in rehabilitation centers, with frequent alcohol, tobacco, and marijuana use. Parent-child relationships showed warmth but also conflict, with high parental monitoring but limited support on substance use discussions. All respondents admitted to non-medical substance use, with many experiencing withdrawal symptoms. The study recommends parents serve as positive role models, receive parenting support, and that the Nigerian government implement youth-oriented policies in schools to mitigate substance use risks among adolescents

Keywords: Adolescents, Parent-child attachment/conflict, Parent monitoring/support, Rehabilitation centers, Substance use