Young offender drug use: knowledge and perceptions of Juvenile Justice Centre youth workers

Juvenile Justice Centre youth workers in New South Wales (n = 106) were surveyed by questionnaire as to their knowledge and perceptions of alcohol and other drug issues of those in their care. Some background variables were also collected. About 30% of the sample reported having (had) a problem with alcohol and/or other drugs and approximately the same percentage came from families with such a problem. Over 50% had received some form of drug education. There was an overestimation of the level of use of narcotics, sedative/hypnotics, anti-anxiety agents and hallucinogens of the youth workers and an underestimation of the level of use of analgesics, alcohol, cannabis and inhalants. Peer pressure was perceived as central in the initiation of use and "denial" in not gaining assistance; the style and belief systems of agencies were not seen as crucial in retaining young people in treatment. Youth workers, who are not required to have any specific education or training prior to employment, did not see themselves as well equipped to assist drug-affected or detoxifying detainees and requested more training/education. It is recommended that this could be provided through tertiary courses and/or in-service staff development.