Psychoactive substance use among Chinese non-engaged youth: The application of the Health Belief Model

Abstract

The present study investigated the prevalence of psychoactive substance use and intention, and identified factors associated with psychoactive substance use and intention among 255 non-engaged youth (NEY) in Hong Kong based on the Health Belief Model. Findings showed that the prevalence of ever use of psychoactive substance and use in the last year was 13.7% and 8.6% respectively. Multivariate analyses revealed that perceived susceptibility to psychoactive substance use and cues to action were significant risk factors, while perceived barrier about the high cost of psychoactive substances was a protective factor of ever use of psychoactive substances among all participants (N = 255). In addition, cues to action was a significant risk factor while perceived barrier about worry of being arrested was a protective factor of intention to use psychoactive substances among those who have never used psychoactive substances (N = 220). Health Belief Model could be a useful framework for designing anti-drug program for NEY.