A Study To Assess The Effectiveness Of Structure Teaching Programme On Level Of Knowledge Regarding Substance Abuse Among Adolescent Boys In Selected School Of Rural In Pudukkottai

Abstract

Substance abuse, defined as a state of psychological or physical dependence on drugs, is a growing concern among adolescents. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of a structured teaching programme on knowledge regarding substance abuse among adolescents at Government Higher Secondary School, Lembalakudi, Pudukkottai District.

A pre-experimental one-group pre-test and post-test design was used. A total of 100 students were selected using non-probability convenience sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire. The majority of participants were 14 years old (67%), female (52%), Hindu (86%), from nuclear families (71%), and had a monthly family income below ₹10,000 (75%). Most had some prior awareness about substance abuse (83%).

In the pre-test, 30% of students had inadequate knowledge, 49% had moderate knowledge, and 21% had adequate knowledge. Post-test results showed improvement: 58% had moderate and 21% had adequate knowledge. The paired t-test revealed a significant increase in mean knowledge scores from 14.48 ± 4.09 to 17.54 ± 3.50 (t = 12.7, p < 0.001). A significant association was observed between knowledge level and variables such as sex, education level, and prior awareness.

The study concluded that the structured teaching programme was effective in enhancing adolescents’ knowledge on substance abuse. Continued awareness programmes are recommended to prevent early initiation and its associated physical and psychological consequences.