The Effects of Substance Abuse on Learner’s Performance in Mathematics
Authors-Mwape Isaac
Keyword-Drugs, drug abuse, drug addiction, drug related problems and psychoactive substances school.
This study investigated the effects of substance abuse on pupil’s performance in mathematics at Musa Secondary school in Kasama district of Northern province. The objectives of the study were to establish the reasons for substance abuse by pupils; to determine the effects of substance abuse on the performance of pupils in mathematics; and to identify the commonly abused sub-stances by pupils. The study used both qualitative and quantitative methods. The sample size comprised of 85 respondents selected, 15 subject teachers who were selected through purposive sampling procedures and 70 pupils were selected using random sampling procedure. The re-search findings revealed that there were many reasons why pupils abused substances which is peer pressure; the need of feeling on top like adults and getting excited; the need for relaxation; the lack of parental care and arising from low self- esteem. The study further revealed that sub-stance abuse had negatively affected the pupil’s performances in mathematics. Among other effects of substance abuse includes changes in the homework quality, in discipline as well as the overall school grades and increased levels of school absenteeism. The study also revealed that there is a strong relationship between pupil’s school attendance and academic performance. The study also established that alcohol was rated the top most commonly abused substance by pu-pils, followed by marijuana then petro/glue and cocaine rated least. Furthermore, recommenda-tions which could help to reduce the abuse of drugs in schools were suggested as; establishing strong anti-drugs club and counseling services in schools through school guidance and counsel-ing services, the Ministry of Education, Drug Enforcement Commission and other lined NGOs should partner together so as to provide a comprehensive awareness campaign program in schools on the dangers of substance abuse and parents should also play a critical role in encour-aging learners in school by providing all the required support that their children may need.
Doi-[http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.20793323]