SOCIO-CULTURAL DETERMINANTS OF ALCOHOL ABUSE AND IT'S EFFECT ON THE HEALTH BEHAVIOUR OF YOUTHS IN UMUAHIA LGA, ABIA STATE

SOCIO-CULTURAL DETERMINANTS OF ALCOHOL ABUSE AND IT'S EFFECT ON THE HEALTH BEHAVIOUR OF YOUTHS IN UMUAHIA LGA, ABIA STATE

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CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the study

Alcohol abuse among youths is a significant public health concern worldwide, with its effects extending to various aspects of individuals' lives, including health behavior. Several socio-cultural factors contribute to the prevalence of alcohol abuse among youths. In Nigeria, cultural norms and societal attitudes towards alcohol consumption play a significant role. According to Oshodi et al. (2015), cultural acceptance and permissiveness regarding alcohol consumption influence youths' attitudes and behaviors towards drinking. Moreover, peer influence and social pressure are potent determinants of alcohol abuse among youths (Balogun & Koye-Ladele, 2016). The desire to conform to peer groups and social norms often leads youths to engage in excessive drinking behaviors.

Furthermore, socio-economic status can impact alcohol abuse patterns among youths. Research by Eze et al. (2018) suggests that individuals from lower socio-economic backgrounds may be more vulnerable to alcohol abuse due to limited access to resources and coping mechanisms. Additionally, exposure to alcohol marketing and advertising, especially in urban areas, contributes to increased alcohol consumption among youths (Onyekwere et al., 2019).

The consequences of alcohol abuse on health behavior are multifaceted. Studies have shown a direct correlation between excessive alcohol consumption and risky health behaviors among youths. For instance, Adeniyi et al. (2017) found that alcohol abuse was associated with risky sexual behavior among Nigerian youths, including unprotected sex and multiple sexual partners. Additionally, alcohol abuse has been linked to poor mental health outcomes, such as depression and anxiety (Oluwole et al., 2020). These mental health issues can further exacerbate risky behaviors and hinder individuals' ability to make informed decisions about their health.

Moreover, alcohol abuse contributes to various physical health problems, including liver disease, cardiovascular issues, and neurological disorders (Oshodi et al., 2015). The detrimental effects of alcohol on physical health can undermine youths' overall well-being and quality of life. Furthermore, alcohol abuse is associated with increased rates of accidents and injuries, both intentional (e.g., violence) and unintentional (e.g., road traffic accidents) (Balogun & Koye-Ladele, 2016).

1.2 Statement of the problem

Alcohol abuse among youths is a multifaceted issue influenced by various socio-cultural factors such as cultural norms, peer pressure, family dynamics, socioeconomic status, and access to alcohol (Gupta et al., 2019). In Nigeria, like many other countries, alcohol consumption patterns are deeply embedded in cultural practices and social norms, which significantly influence individuals' drinking behaviors (Olugbake et al., 2017). Understanding these socio-cultural determinants is essential for designing tailored interventions to address alcohol abuse effectively.

Previous studies have highlighted the intricate interplay between socio-cultural factors and alcohol abuse among youths. For instance, Odek-Ogunde et al. (2016) found that peer pressure and societal norms significantly influence alcohol consumption patterns among Nigerian youths. Similarly, Adelekan et al. (2018) identified family dynamics, such as parental alcohol use and family support systems, as crucial determinants of youths' alcohol consumption behaviors.

Moreover, research indicates that alcohol abuse among youths is associated with various adverse health behaviors, including risky sexual behaviors, substance abuse, violence, and mental health disorders (Adebiyi et al., 2015; Nkire et al., 2019). These behaviors not only pose immediate health risks but also have long-term consequences on individuals' overall well-being.

Alcohol abuse among youths is a significant public health concern globally, with detrimental effects on both individual health behaviors and broader societal well-being. Understanding the socio-cultural determinants influencing alcohol abuse and its impact on health behaviors is crucial for developing effective interventions and policies. This research aims to investigate the socio-cultural determinants of alcohol abuse and its effects on the health behavior of youths in Umuahia Local Government Area (LGA), Abia State.

1.3 Objective of the study

1. To examine the socio-cultural factors contributing to alcohol abuse among youths in Umuahia LGA, Abia State.

2. To assess the impact of alcohol abuse on the health behaviors of youths in Umuahia LGA, Abia State.

3. To explore the relationship between socio-cultural determinants and health behavior changes among youths affected by alcohol abuse in Umuahia LGA, Abia State.

1.4 Research Questions

1. What are the socio-cultural factors contributing to alcohol abuse among youths in Umuahia LGA, Abia State?

2. What is the impact of alcohol abuse on the health behaviors of youths in Umuahia LGA, Abia State?

3. What is the relationship between socio-cultural determinants and health behavior changes among youths affected by alcohol abuse in Umuahia LGA, Abia State?

1.5 Research hypotheses

Null Hypothesis (H0): There is no significant relationship between socio-cultural determinants and health behavior changes among youths affected by alcohol abuse in Umuahia LGA, Abia State

Alternative Hypothesis (H1): There is a significant relationship between socio-cultural determinants and health behavior changes among youths affected by alcohol abuse in Umuahia LGA, Abia State

1.6 Significance of the study

Informed Policy Development and Intervention Strategies:

Understanding the socio-cultural determinants of alcohol abuse among youths in Umuahia LGA is crucial for developing effective policies and intervention strategies. Research findings can inform policymakers about the specific cultural norms, peer influences, socioeconomic factors, and other contextual elements that contribute to alcohol abuse in this population. For instance, if the research identifies certain cultural practices or social pressures that promote alcohol consumption among youths, policymakers can design targeted interventions to address these issues. Additionally, insights from the research can help in the development of culturally sensitive prevention programs and initiatives tailored to the needs of the local community. By implementing evidence-based policies and interventions, authorities can work towards reducing the prevalence of alcohol abuse and promoting healthier behaviors among youths, thereby improving public health outcomes in the region.

Health Promotion and Education Efforts:

Research on the effects of alcohol abuse on the health behavior of youths can serve as a catalyst for health promotion and education efforts within the community. By investigating the relationship between alcohol consumption and various health outcomes, such as physical health problems, mental health disorders, risky behaviors, and academic performance, researchers can raise awareness about the detrimental effects of alcohol abuse among youths. Findings from the research can be disseminated through educational campaigns, workshops, seminars, and other outreach activities targeted at both youths and their parents or guardians. These initiatives can help individuals understand the risks associated with excessive alcohol consumption and empower them to make informed decisions about their health and well-being. Moreover, by promoting positive health behaviors and providing resources for substance abuse prevention and treatment, health promotion efforts can contribute to reducing the burden of alcohol-related health issues in the community.

Cultural Sensitivity and Community Engagement:

Researching the socio-cultural determinants of alcohol abuse requires a nuanced understanding of the local customs, traditions, beliefs, and values prevalent in Umuahia LGA. Engaging with community members, cultural leaders, religious institutions, and other stakeholders is essential to gaining insights into the cultural factors that influence alcohol consumption among youths. By involving the community in the research process, researchers can build trust, foster collaboration, and ensure that the study findings resonate with the lived experiences of the local population. Furthermore, community engagement facilitates the co-creation of solutions and interventions that are culturally sensitive, acceptable, and sustainable in the long term. By acknowledging and respecting the cultural context in which alcohol abuse occurs, researchers can develop interventions that are more likely to be embraced by the community and have a meaningful impact on reducing harmful drinking behaviors among youths. Additionally, involving community members in the research process can empower them to take ownership of addressing alcohol-related issues and promote collective action towards creating a healthier and safer environment for young people in Umuahia LGA.

1.7 Scope of the study

This study focuses to examine the socio-cultural factors contributing to alcohol abuse among youths in Umuahia LGA, Abia State, assess the impact of alcohol abuse on the health behaviors of youths in Umuahia LGA, Abia State, and explore the relationship between socio-cultural determinants and health behavior changes among youths affected by alcohol abuse in Umuahia LGA, Abia State. Hence youths in Umuahia LGA shall serve as enrolled participants for this study.

1.8 Limitation of the study

Like in every human endeavour, the researchers encountered slight constraints while carrying out the study. The significant constraint are:

Time: The researcher encountered time constraint as the researcher had to carry out this research along side other academic activities such as attending lectures and other educational activities required of her.

Finance: The researcher incurred more financial expenses in carrying out this study such as typesetting, printing, sourcing for relevant materials, literature, or information and in the data collection process.

Availability of Materials: The researcher encountered challenges in sourcing for literature in this study. The scarcity of literature on the subject due to the nature of the discourse was a limitation to this study.

1.9 Definition of terms

Socio-cultural:

Pertaining to the social and cultural factors that influence individuals and communities, including norms, values, beliefs, traditions, customs, and social structures.

Determinants:

Factors that contribute to or influence a particular outcome. In this context, socio-cultural determinants refer to the social and cultural factors that shape patterns of alcohol abuse among youths in Umuahia LGA, Abia State.

Alcohol:

A psychoactive substance found in beverages such as beer, wine, and spirits, known for its intoxicating effects when consumed.

Abuse:

Excessive or harmful use of alcohol, often characterized by patterns of consumption that lead to physical, psychological, social, or legal problems.

Youths:

Individuals within a specific age range typically associated with adolescence and young adulthood. The exact age range may vary depending on cultural and legal definitions but generally refers to individuals between the ages of 15 and 24.

Health Behavior:

Actions or conduct undertaken by individuals that directly or indirectly influence their health status or well-being. This includes behaviors related to diet, exercise, substance use, healthcare seeking, and other lifestyle choices.

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