Family and Community Dynamics of Substance Abuse Among Youths in Bushenyi District, Western Uganda

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Background Youth substance abuse is an escalating public health challenge in Uganda, undermining individual well-being, family stability, and community development. Understanding the influence of family and community dynamics is critical for designing effective prevention strategies. Aim This study investigated the relationship between family and community factors and substance abuse among youths in Bushenyi District, Western Uganda. Methods A cross-sectional study design was employed. Structured questionnaires were administered to 381 youths aged 18–30 years, collecting sociodemographic information and data on family and community influences (parental drug use, home rules, peer influence, and law enforcement). Descriptive statistics summarised the data, chi-square tests assessed associations, and logistic regression identified predictors at a 5% significance level. Results Early initiation of drug use was common, particularly in bars and among peer groups. Substance abuse was significantly associated with parental drug use (χ 2 = 102.68, p < 0.001), living arrangements (χ 2 = 21.46, p = 0.001), peer influence (χ 2 = 13.40, p = 0.001), and weak law enforcement (χ 2 = 12.95, p = 0.001). Regression analysis showed that strict home rules were protective (Exp(B) = 0.325, p < 0.001), while weak law enforcement increased the risk of substance abuse (Exp(B) = 0.357, p = 0.003). Conclusion Family and community dynamics, particularly parental behaviour, peer pressure, and ineffective institutional regulation, are central drivers of youth substance abuse. Strengthening parental involvement, enforcing household rules, and improving law enforcement and community-based interventions are important in reducing the burden of substance use. The study highlights the need for multisectoral action involving families, schools, religious institutions, and law enforcement, while providing evidence to inform prevention strategies and future research on contextual risk pathways.

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