The role of libraries in curbing drug abuse among adolescent boys in Nigeria: A theoretical examination

Abstract

This study examines the role of libraries in curbing drug abuse among adolescent boys in Nigeria. The study discovered that substance abuse is on the increase. It is one of the major social problems plaguing Nigerian society. Although different classes of people are getting involved in the despicable act of drug abuse, the trend is disturbingly high among  adolescent boys. The chronological age and other peculiarities associated with adolescence predispose this category of youths to experiment with  mood-altering substances as recourse to ease off the unavoidable stresses and strains of life. The findings dovetail with the basic assumptions of  Social Learning theory, which formed the theoretical framework to this  study. That is, adolescent boys are easily swayed by the destructive  influence of media advertisements, peer influence and pressure, and indeed, antisocial adults who they see as role models. The period of  adolescence is characterised by a high propensity to make amorous  advances towards the opposite sex which some boys believe that can be  achieved under the influence of psychoactive substances. The study  recommends that stakeholders on youth development and empowerment should organise regular intervention programmes with adolescents in their various schools and communities so as to sensitise them on the dangers of drug abuse, and how to stay away from illicit drug culture. Adolescents should be properly guided and encouraged to spend a great deal of their time in libraries studying to keep abreast of current trends in the vexed issue of substance abuse.

Keywords: Adolescent Boys, Curbing, Drug Abuse, Libraries, Role, Theoretical Examination