Perception and Patterns of Substance Consumption Among Youths: Survey in Pune City

Post COVID-19, there have been rising concerns regarding mental health issues and substance abuse in youth. Present research aims to understand attitudes, patterns, and reasons for substance consumption among youth in Pune City. Using a stratified sampling method covering the geographical areas, data was collected from 1197 youth using a survey questionnaire measuring attitude, consumption patterns, and reasons for consumption as well as non-consumption. Significant attitudinal differences across gender (t=3.40; p<.01), family type (t=5.63; p<.01), and annual family income (F=10.37, p<.01) were noted. Also, a significant relationship was found between substance consumption and gender (χ2 (1, n=1185) = 26.25, p<.001), and parents’ working status (χ2 (1, N=1173) = 16.77, p<.001), and annual family income (χ2 (1, N=1179) = 19.64, p<.001). With 60% of the sample reporting to have consumed a substance in their life, the most prominent reasons for the consumption of substances were for enjoyment, social celebration, and relaxation. On the other hand, the most prominent reasons for non-consumption were for good health and secondly to feel energetic. Thus, the report reflects on the changing societal value system and highlights the need for primary and secondary prevention.