The perceptions of youth on the prevention of substance use disorder in the Cape Flats: suggestions for social work practice

Abstract

Youth participation is a recognised strategy in the prevention of substance abuse. Different preventative strategies require a concerted effort involving various stakeholders to prevent and reduce substance abuse. This study described the perceptions of youths on the prevention of substance use disorder. A qualitative approach, supported by three research designs was utilised to answer TWO overarching research questions. Non-probability purposive sampling was employed to recruit youth residing in the Cape Flats to participate in face-to-face interviews and focus groups discussions. The community development theory and triangle of youth participation theory were utilised as theoretical frameworks for this study. The data were analysed following the eight steps of Tesch, while Lincoln and Guba’s model was used for data verification. Informed consent, confidentiality, anonymity was applied to ensure ethical practice. The findings culminated in the presentation of suggestions for social work practice, recommendations for policy, education and future research. The findings revealed the severe impact of substance abuse on youth and their communities. It was evident that different sectors i.e., Faith Based, Recreational skills training programmes, Street committees and Law enforcement are trying their best to have a community free of substances. However, 90% of the participants articulated that the existing programmes are not effective. In addition, the study highly recommended the collaboration between stakeholders to jointly implement substance abuse prevention programmes to address the substance abuse problem amongst the youth. Moreover, the participants further recommended that preventive programmes must be appropriate, attractive and must be tailored for specific community.