Journal of Addiction Research & Therapy
Open Access

Abstract

The study sought to identify factors influencing the non-use of drugs among Filipino out-of-school youth in both the micro- and macro-level environments in terms of personal vulnerability, family structure, peer selection and influence, social activity and social awareness. This study also explores the role of formal, informal and non-formal education in developing resilience to drugs. Five Filipino male out-of-school youth non-users ages 15-30 years old from Barangay Nangka in Marikina city were the participants for this study and data from questionnaire, life-story essay, unfinished statements, participant observation and social media post were triangulated to ensure objectivity. This study made use the modified grounded theory approach for it permitted the researcher to get immersed deeply within the data. The study reveals five factors influencing non-use of drugs among Filipino male out-of-school youth and these are the following: strong spiritual foundation, close family ties, positive peer relationship, interest in recreational activities and active community involvement. The contribution of formal, informal and non-formal education to the non-use of drugs among male Filipino OSY was found to be strongly relevant as it helps them in developing life skills and values for a sound drug literacy. The researcher desire that this study will serve as stepping stone towards exploring other issues concerning drug use in the Philippines particularly those that can help provide evidence on the effectiveness of local drug prevention initiatives, as well as strengthening values education program by integrating it across learning areas in all grade levels in formal education and non-formal education, and incorporating spiritual education and development of sports and social support system under the alternative learning system curriculum. cjbuhain26@gmail.com

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