Exploring parenting styles and their influence on adolescents’ drug abuse in the Effutu municipality

Abstract

This study explored parenting styles and their influence on adolescent drug abuse within the Effutu Municipality. The research was grounded in Attachment Theory and Baumrind’s Theory of Parenting Styles. A phenomenological research design, informed by the interpretive paradigm and guided by a qualitative approach, was employed. A total of 10 adolescents aged between 14 and 19 years participated in the study. Participants were selected using the snowball sampling technique, and data were collected through semi-structured interviews. Thematic analysis was used to interpret the data. Findings revealed that authoritarian and neglectful parenting styles were predominantly practiced in the Effutu Municipality, both of which were found to increase the likelihood of adolescent drug abuse. In contrast, the authoritative parenting style was associated with a reduced likelihood of substance use among adolescents. The study also found that permissive parenting was less commonly practiced in the area. The study highlighted that lack of parental monitoring and involvement, strict rules and punishment, absence of trust, and lack of emotional support were key factors linking parenting styles to adolescent drug abuse. Additionally, adolescents reported facing several challenges as a result of their drug use, including psychological stress and trauma, academic difficulties, stigmatization and discrimination, and engaging in theft to support their habits. Based on these findings, the study recommends that parents in the Effutu Municipality minimize the use of authoritarian practices, avoid neglectful parenting, and consider adopting more authoritative approaches. Parents are encouraged to reduce excessive control and punishment, build trust with their children, and provide emotional support to promote healthier adolescent development and prevent drug abuse.