Aug 2026· Lumen et Virtus· 0 citations· 26 references
Abstract
Drug use is an ancient practice, but its associated disorders represent a contemporary public health challenge. This study investigates the impact of proximal processes in childhood/adolescence and adulthood on substance use, focusing on the role of Therapeutic Communities (TCs). Using a qualitative methodology, 19 residents of TCs in the state of Rio de Janeiro were interviewed. Instruments included a screening test (ASSIST), a sociodemographic inventory, and semi-structured interviews. Content analysis of the interviews was supported by the Requalify.ai software, which proved to be an efficient tool for categorizing and visualizing qualitative data. Results indicate that factors such as dysfunctional family environments, violence, and early onset of consumption, often mediated by peer influence, are determining risk factors. On the other hand, peer social support within TCs emerges as a crucial protective factor, associated with positive changes reported by participants. The sample revealed an overrepresentation of Black and Brown individuals, highlighting the racial dimension in the history of drug use in Brazil. The study concludes that proximal relationships are decisive in both the etiology and recovery of substance use disorders, and that TCs, although controversial, can offer a supportive environment that favors change, especially through peer support and cohabitation.
Particular attention is paid to the role of digital technologies in increasing access to drugs and the influence of the family environment on the development of vulnerability to addiction, as well as the systemic barriers preventing them from receiving effective support.
A. Kuatova, Zh.Zh. Sembina, Z. Puzanova et al.· Gumilyov Journal of Sociolog...· 0 citations
The findings emphasize the need for targeted educational interventions—particularly about long-term consequences—and for strengthening protective factors in families and peer groups to reduce substance abuse and its health and social impact among young people in India.
J. Semwal, Vidisha Vallabh, D. Nagrath et al.· Journal of Education and Hea...· 0 citations
There was a strong negative relationship between mental health and substance use and a positive relationship between peer influence and increased risk, whereas sport participation appeared to have a moderate protective relationship, but with a range of variation in participants.
Mila Inés, Moreno Pramatárova, Christian Silva-Paredes et al.· 0 citations
It was revealed that initiation of substance use was most often in adolescence, and alcohol was the most often used substance, and there was a moderate positive relationship between the age of initiation and the age of participants.
Yashasvini Sharma· International journal of hum...· 0 citations
Key challenges identified included the absence of integrated treatment for comorbid mental health conditions, frequent relapses, lack of culturally adaptive interventions, limited innovation in treatment approaches, minimal family involvement, and absence of individualized treatment planning.
F. Ahmed, Djamil A Malik· Foundation University Journa...· 0 citations
Concerns such as being liked, approved, and visible on social media may create a basis for the development of mental health problems among users. In this context, social media can lead to addiction, influencing daily life and shaping personal identities according to online dynamics. This study examines problematic social media use through the example of Instagram, focusing on various variables within a sample from Uşak province. It addresses the individual and societal outcomes of social media use by considering duration and frequency of use, as well as emotional reactions when access is restricted. The aim of the study is to contribute to understanding the psychological and social impacts of social media and to identify the dimensions of digital addiction on a scientific basis. The significance lies in raising academic and public awareness regarding the effects of an increasingly digitalized social structure on individuals, while also providing region-based evaluations specific to Uşak. Most participants are young, female, and high school graduates. They use Instagram for an average of 3–4 hours per day, a duration considered within the risky range for social media addiction. Entertainment and the desire for popularity or social approval are the dominant motivations for use. This indicates that young people view social media both as a means of passing time and as a tool for gaining recognition. Participants exhibit problematic behavioral patterns close to addiction, particularly difficulty controlling usage time and experiencing negative emotions when access is limited. Keywords: Instagram, Problematic social media use, Social media addiction, Uşak Province.
C. Özmen· 0 citations
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