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Intersecting vulnerabilities: Substance abuse in indigenous communities in Southern India
Nisanth M Pillai1, Harikrishnan S1
1Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Amritapuri, India.
Journal of Ethnicity in Substance Abuse
|December 31, 2024
Summary
Substance use, particularly alcohol, is a significant issue in Kerala
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Sociology
- Substance Abuse Research
Background:
- Substance usage is a growing concern in tribal communities in southern Kerala, linked to social, health, and economic problems.
- Alcohol is the most commonly abused substance, with an estimated prevalence of 20%-30% among tribal communities in southern Kerala.
- Alcohol use is more prevalent in males, who initiate misuse at a younger age due to parental influence, home environment, and peer pressure.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify the prevalence and patterns of substance usage within tribal communities in southern Kerala.
- To explore the socio-demographic factors influencing substance use initiation and continuation.
- To understand the specific substances being used and the age of initiation.
Main Methods:
- A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative surveys and qualitative semi-structured interviews.
- A survey was administered to 101 randomly selected tribal residents, collecting demographic details, substance use history, and views on substance use.
- Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 respondents who reported using at least one substance.
Main Results:
- Out of 101 respondents (91 males, 10 females), a majority reported using substances like alcohol, cigarettes, and marijuana.
- Tobacco use was reported by 74%, alcohol consumption by 67%, and marijuana use by 13% of respondents.
- Qualitative analysis revealed that substance use initiation (alcohol, cigarettes, marijuana) often occurs at a younger age, influenced by peer pressure, parental role models, and home environment.
Conclusions:
- Substance usage and its prevalence are notably high among the tribal communities in southern Kerala.
- Alcohol and tobacco are the most prevalent substances used, with significant rates of marijuana consumption.
- Early initiation of substance use is a key trend, driven by socio-environmental factors within the community.
Keywords:
home environmentindigenous communitiesparental influencepeer pressureprevalencesubstance useMore Related Videos
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