Choosers or losers? Influences on young people's choices about drugs in inner-city Dublin.

Abstract

This research was undertaken against a background of increased drug use, and heightened concern for young people growing up in area where drug use is concentrated. This report aims to examine the use and non-use of drugs by young people aged 15-19 years in a Dublin inner-city community considered to be 'high risk' for problem drug use. The role of choice and decision-making in drug use are key issues addressed in this report. Young people were recruited from within the community following a period of prolonged engagement by the researcher. A qualitative approach consisting of individual in-depth interviews and focus group discussions was utilised. 57 young people were interviewed individually and 24 took part in the focus group discussion. \n \nThe study findings highlight the importance of considering the perspectives of young people in the planning and implementation of drug prevention strategies. The study found that there is a need to target high-risk groups, alternative and innovative strategies should be employed to reach difficult to reach groups. Specially tailored school based drugs education programmes and greater inter-agency co-operation between health services, youth workers educational and social services etc. need to be developed. Harm reduction education and treatment interventions were also recommended.

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