Title : Impact of addiction abstinence facilitation program on adolescent girl students in India
Abstract:
Addiction is a global concern in both rich and economically disadvantaged nations. It has significant effects on public and personal health, mental well-being, and community dynamics. Adolescence is a critical period involving identity confusion increasing their vulnerability to substance or digital addiction. In this phase factors such as peer pressure, social norms, and cultural influences play a crucial role in shaping adolescents' perceptions about substance use or digital engagement. This study examines the impact of the addiction abstinence program “SAIYAM” (Self Awareness In Youth for Anti-addiction Motive) on adolescent girls in India (13 to 16 age). The program creates awareness about the prevention of and abstinence from substance abuse, media-internet addiction, and sexually risky behavior through self-control and self-regulation. This comprehensive program also involves two parent awareness sessions, considering their vital role in the upbringing of the children. Quasi-experimental pre-post-research design was used. The facilitation program included key topics, such as personality development, self-regulation, and abstinence from addiction which facilitate assertiveness, spread over 25 interactive and informative sessions including games, role plays, and songs to keep the students engaged. Three tests namely- My Knowledge My Health (MKMH), Myths and Misconceptions about Addiction Test (MMAT), and Emotional Regulation Test (ERT) were used. A sample of 1200 girls students from 8th and 9th grades residing in Pune city ( India) was collected.
A significant difference in the pre-post scores on MKMH, MMAT, and ERT has been found. The results indicate a positive impact of the facilitation program on students' knowledge and attitude towards sexuality and gender concepts, addiction abstinence, and emotional regulation. At the post-test, a highly significant (.001) correlation between MKMH ( My Knowledge My Health) and MMAT ( Myths and Misconception about Addiction Test) is seen, however, a positive but non-significant correlation is seen with ERT ( Emotional Regulation Test). Awareness sessions were also conducted for their parents after some classroom sessions. Parents' feedback was collected to know about the children’s impression of the program and their own perception about behavior change in their wards. The analysis of parents’ feedback supports the quantitative findings.
Keywords: Addiction Abstinence, Facilitation, Awareness, Self-Control, Self-Regulation, Adolescent Girls.
Audience Take Away Notes:
- The comprehensive program is more effective as it includes adolescent students and their parents. Along with addiction abstinence, the program also addresses the physical and psycho-social needs of adolescents. The program is disseminated and can be adopted according to the socio-cultural context.
