Psychosocial and Demographic Factors That Compound Alcohol Abuse Amongst Youth: A Case Study of Musina High School

Abstract

The risk factors that compound alcohol abuse by young people have significant effects of individuals. The sole purpose of social work is to enhance the social functioning of clients and in most cases, clients have impairments as the result of high density of alcohol outlets, affordability of alcohol, which later give birth to psychosocial challenges. The aim of this study is to describe psychosocial and demographic factors compounding alcohol abuse amongst youth. The study employed quantitative approach and descriptive case study design. Data was collected at Musina High School and 96 learners were sampled using stratified sampling to complete the questionnaire. Data was analysed descriptively with the aid of Statistical Package for the Social Science. The study revealed that psychosocial and environmental factors compound to alcohol abuse amongst youth in Musina High School. The study concludes that the context determines the excessive use of alcohol abuse by youth. Young people especially those who reside in rural areas are exposed to high density of alcohol outlets and they are left without guardianship. Due to lack of guardian or parental involvement they end up indulging in excessive use of alcohol.