ROLE OF ELECTRONIC MEDIA IN FIGHTING AGAINST DRUG ABUSE AMONG

JOBLESS YOUTH IN NABUTTITI SLUMS-KAMPALA CITY: A CASE STUDY OF

NATION MEDIA TELEVISION

BY

MUBIAZALWA BONNY
BMC/44153/143/DU
A DISSERTATION SUBMITTED TO THE COLLEGE OF HUMANITIES SOCIAL
SCIENCES AS A PARTIAL FULFILLMENT OF THE REQUIREMENTS FOR
THE AWARD OF BACHELOR’S DEGREE IN MASS COMMUNICATION
OF KAMPALA INTERNATIONAL
UNIVERSITY

SEPTEMBER 2017
 DECLARATION
I, MUBIAZALWA BONNY, declare that, this dissertation is my own work and has never
been presented by anyone else for any award in any institution.

MUBIAZALWA BONNY
BMC/44153/143/DU

Signature ….……………………… Date ….………………………

i
 APPROVAL
This work entitled “The role of the media in fighting against drug abuse in Kampala has been
submitted for an examination with my approval as a university supervisor.

Signature…………………… Date……………………
MR..
SUPERVISOR

ii
 DEDICATION
As a researcher, I dedicate this research report to my fellow students especially those who may
wish to carry out research related to this topic.

iii
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
My heartfelt thanks go to my parents my father Mr. …………. and my mother ………. for their
financial support and words of encouragement. I cannot forget to appreciate my beloved
lecturers, Ms. Owade Joan, Mr. Ochwo Geoffrey and above all Mr. Watenyera Richard my
supervisor who guided me wherever I had gone astray. I also extend my sincere thanks to all my
friends who helped me financially, spiritually and in all other aspects.

iv
 LIST OF ACRONYMS

AIDS : Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome

HIV : Human Immune Deficiency Virus
STDs : Sexually Transmitted Diseases
USA : United States of America
U. K : United Kingdom
U. S : United States
NIDA : National Institute on Alcohol Abuse
NIAAA : National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism

v
 LIST OF TABLES
Table 1: Showing sex of respondents………………………………………………………….15
Table 2: Showing age of respondents………………………………………………………….16
Table3: Showing stress influences youth to abuse drugs………………………………………21
Table 4: Representing peer pressure and drug abuse…………………………………………...25
Table 5: Representing unemployment and drug abuse…………………………………………21
Table 6: Showing psychological disorders……………………………………………………..22
Table 7: Showing family background and drug abuse…………………………………………22
Table 8: Representing loss of jobs due to drug abuse…………………………………………..23
Table 9: Showing dropping out of school………………………………………………………24
Table 10: Showing engaging in bad acts……………………………………………………….24

vi
 LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1: Marital status…………………………………………………………………..16
Figure 2: Youth involvement in drug use…………………..……………………………17
Figure 3: Drugs commonly used by youths in Nabuttiti slum………………………...18
Figure 4: Percentage distribution of drugs abused according to gender………………………...19

vii
 ABSTRACT
The study focused on “the role of the media in fighting against drug abuse among the youths.” It
was based on its objectives namely; to find out the causes of increased drug abuse among the
youths in Nabuttiti slum, Kampala city, to find out the effects of drug abuse and lastly to
establish how the media fights drug abuse among youths.

The study was descriptive in nature. It used a sample size of 100 respondents among which
included youths, local leaders and youth leaders both males and females. The researcher selected
the study respondents using a purposive sampling technique. Interview and questionnaire
methods were used to gather the primary data and documentary review was used for the
collection of secondary data.

The findings revealed that majority (65%) reported that they were involved in using at least some
kinds of drugs. The study found that alcohol was the most abused drug by the youths. The study
also found that majority (38%) of the respondents reported drugs being obtained from drug users
who distributed them in hope of getting some money. Findings also reported that majority (30%)
of the respondents strongly agreed that family background, stress, peer pressure in which youths
lived influenced them to drug abuse. It was found out that drug abuse causes loss of jobs, causes
school dropout and also leads to engaging in bad acts.

The study recommended that strict laws should be undertaken by the government to curb drug
abuse, strengthening the laws on drug trafficking, parents being responsible for the acts of their
children, empowering communities with techniques of identifying drug users, designing
awareness campaigns and sensitizations and encouraging media to reduce or eliminate the
appearance of substances.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

viii
Declaration i

Approval ii

Dedication iii

Acknowledgement iv

List of acronyms v

List of tables vi

List of figures vii

Abstract viii

CHARPTER ONE1

INTRODUCTION1

1.2 Statement of the problem 2

1.3 Purpose of the study 3

1.4 Objectives of the study 3

1.5 Research questions 3

1.6 Scope of the study 3

1.6.1 Geographical scope 3

1.6.2 Content 3

1.6.3 Time scope 3

1.7 Significance of the study 3

1.8 Operational definitions 4

CHARPTER TWO 5

LITERATURE REVIEW5

2.1 Introduction 5

2.2 Causes of drug abuse 5

2.3 Effects of drug abuse 7

ix
2.3.1 Effects on the individual 7

2.3.2 Effects on the family 8

2.3.3 Effects on the society 8

2.4 The role of the media in fighting drug abuse among the youths in Uganda 9

CHAPTER THREE 11

METHODOLOGY 11

3.0 Introduction. 11

3.1 Research design. 11

3.2 Study area and population 11

3.3 Sample size 11

3.4 Sample proceedure 11

3.5 Data sources 11

3.5.1 Primary Sources 11

3.5.2 Secondary sources 11

3.6 Methods of data collection and instruments 12

3.6.1 Questionnaires 12

3.6.2 Interviews 12

3.7 Data processing and analysis 12

3.7.1 Data presentation 12

3.8 Ethical considerations 12

3.9 Limitations of the study 12

CHAPTER FOUR 14

PRESENTATION OF FINDINGS 14

4.1Introduction 14

4.2 Socio-demographic characteristics 14

x
4.5 Effects of drugs on youth’s wellbeing 20

CHAPTER FIVE 23

SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION 23

5.1 Introduction 24

5.2 Summary of the findings 24

5.3 Conclusion 26

5.4 Recommendations 26

REFERENCES 27

APPENDIX 1 30

APPENDLX II 36

xi
 CHAPTER ONE

1.0 Introduction

This chapter consisted of the background of the study, statement of the problem, purpose of the
study, research questions, and objectives, scope of the study and the significance of the study.

1.1 Background of the study

Drug abuse, alcohol abuse and HIV/AIDS epidemic are some of the major burdens of societies in
the 21st Century. Studies show that globally more preadolescent and teenage children are using
drugs and alcohol (Australian Drug Foundation, (1999); Drug Nexus in Africa (1998); National
Household Survey on Drug Abuse (1994-1999); World Drug Report (1997). Drugs used and
abused by children and youth include; tobacco, alcohol, heroin, cocaine, madras, LSD, Ecstasy,
cannabis and hallucinogens. The easy access and availability of drugs and other substances is
another concern amongst those in social development institutions and human social services.

Drug usage in Africa amongst young people is associated with social and psychological damage
produced by social upheavals and civil war. In other words, it is associated with the challenging
social economic material conditions found within most countries in the continent. A survey of
young Ugandan suggested that 38% used drugs, including the culturally accepted qual. In
Nigeria it is reported that 72% of the street children in lagos use some kind of drug (James,
1999). Beside the threat of increasing consumption amongst children and young people,
Southern Africa is becoming a major trans-shipment point in the international drug trade as well
as a major producer of dagga (Honwana and Lamb, 1998). All these factors are a threat to the
stability and sustained socio economic development initiatives in the southern Africa Region.
Young people use or abuse drugs for a variety of reasons. One cannot generalize the reasons
given by young people of Africa for the use or experimenting with drugs.

Drug abuse among adolescents continues to be a major problem worldwide, and in particular,
Uganda. Most teenagers begin to experiment with substances at an early age (De Miranda, 1987;
Jaffe, 1998). The most widely abused substances are alcohol, tobacco and cannabis because they
are in excess (Alcohol and substance abuse information, n.d.; Madu & Matla, 2003).

1
According to Kenneth J Neubeck (1976), the mass media are capable of facilitating short term,
intermediate term and long term influences on audience members. In the context of drug war, the
mass media can perform three key functions- educating, shaping public relations and advocating
a particular policy or point of view. As education tools, the mass media do not only impart
knowledge but can be a part of efforts to promote actions having social utility. As public
relations tools, the mass media assist organizations in achieving credibility and respect among
public health opinion leaders, stakeholders and gatekeepers. As advocacy tools, the mass media
assist leaders in setting the agenda, shaping debates about controversial issues ad gaining support
for viewpoints. Also, both the electronic media and drug industry campaigns against the legal
and illicit drug industries send mixed and sometimes confusing messages to children and young
people. All these messages are usually presented in very appealing, attractive and persuasive
packages. Social development interventions therefore have to be alive to the realities and
complex challenges posed by the drug industry.

Children and young people who use abuse drugs become one of the most vulnerable groups to
HIV/AIDS infections. The increase of drug use and threats of HIV/AIDS amongst young people
globally are a cause for concern. Young people between 10-24 years are estimated to account to
60% of all new HIV infection worldwide (Fadayomi and Poukouta, 1999).

With the young people in the United Kingdom, some of the reasons given for using drugs are;
relaxation or stress relief, fun, excitement and happiness. In Australia, young people use drugs
for the same reasons as adults and youth in other parts of the world. They use drugs for
relaxation and fun, dealing with inhabitation, coping with pressure and frustration, to relieve
stress and anxiety or pain, and to overcome boredom. Some of the drugs are perceived as
acceptable in society (Australian Foundation, 2000, Nielson1999).

Abuse of substances among adolescents is associated with a broad range of high-risk behavior.
This type of behavior can have profound health, economic and social consequences, for example,
some adolescents participate in deviant peer groups, unprotected sexual intercourse,
interpersonal violence, destruction of property and perform poorly in their studies (De Miranda,
1987; Jaffe, 1998; Substance Abuse and HIV/AIDS, n.d.).

2
 
According to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (2008), substance abuse is
worsened by complex socio-economic challenges such as unemployment, poverty and crime in
general. These social ills are devastating many families and communities. Substances from all
over the world currently flood Uganda. Drug pushers are forcing young people into taking
substances so that once they are hooked; they can manipulate their friends into taking substances
(United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, 2008). Too many youth seem to think of
experimentation with substances as an acceptable part of transition into adulthood. Few take
seriously the negative consequences of dependence on substances (Madu & Matla, 2003).

1.2 Statement of the problem

The press has become a “toothless bulldog” that can bark, but is not able to bite. With regard to the
mass media, Article 29 (1) (a) guarantees media freedoms:

“Every person shall have the right to freedom of speech and expression, which shall include freedom of
the press and other media”.

The mass media play three crucial functions- educating, shaping public relations and imparting
knowledge to the audience members allowing new ideas and concerns about drug abuse. Despite
all these efforts, there has been an increase in drug abuse among youths in Uganda. This has led
to so many problems for example high spread of diseases like HIV/AIDS, increase in school
dropouts and high crime rates. In 2008-9 over 54 Ugandans had been arrested on drug related
offences, and 38 had been convicted to death (New Vision April 15th 2008). Forty-five percent
of the youths have confessed that they have taken drugs and alcohol, according to the data
collected by Uganda Youth Development Link (UYDEL) [The New Vision, 2013].

Consequently, the young generation and the youth have ended up spoilt, imprisoned, raped,
homeless, jobless, early and forced marriages, unwanted pregnancies, prostitutes and others have
died of the HIV/AIDS. Due to this problem, the future of Uganda is not only at the state of
doubt but also in a terrible dilemma since the youth are looked at as the parents and leaders of
tomorrow. The researcher, therefore, decided to focus on this in order to get possible solutions to
curb down drug abuse.

1.3 Purpose of the study

The purpose of the study was to find out the role of the media in fighting against drug abuse
among youths in Nabuttiti suburbs of Kampala city-Uganda.
3
1.4 Objectives of the study
a) To find out the causes of increased drug abuse among the youth in Nabuttiti suburbs of
Kampala city.

b) To find out the effects of drug abuse in among the jobless youths Nabuttiti of Kampala city.

c) To establish how the media fights drug abuse among youths in Kampala city.

1.5 Research questions

1. What are the causes of drug abuse among youth in Kampala city?

2. What are the direct and indirect effects of drug abuse in Kampala city?

3. What is the role of the media in fighting against drug abuse among youths in Kampala city?

1.6 Scope of the study

1.6.1 Geographical scope
The study was carried out in Nabuttiti slum, Kampala city. Nabuttiti is located in Makindye
Division, is bordered by Kansanga, Nsambya, Lukuli and Makindye, the road distance between
Kampala's central business district and Nabuttiti is approximately 2 kilometres (1.9 mi).

1.6.2 Content
The content of this research was limited to the role of the media in fighting against drug abuse
among youth in Nabuttiti slum, Kampala city.

1.6.3 Time scope

The research was carried out in a period of six months that is to say from July 2016 to September
2016.

1.7 Significance of the study

The study may be of great importance to the following stakeholders;
The findings of the study would help to highlight on the importance of media response to the
development of community service delivery to the government.

4
The findings of the study would help to bring in new knowledge to community members media
practitioners, Government officials and all other organizations concerned about the service
delivery in the community areas.

The study would help to add more Literature to the academia as it will add new insight to the
other researchers who would carry out a related research on the same topic.

The research will also help the researcher attain a bachelors’ degree of Mass Communication of
Kampala International University, Uganda.

1.8 Operational definitions

Media-Media can be defined as channels through which messages are passed to an audience.
The intension of passing this message is always to inform, persuade, or provoke response among
others.
Drug abuse- This is the compulsive, excessive and self-demanding use of habit forming drugs or
substances leading to addiction or dependence. (Business dictionary com)
Youth- This means the period of life from puberty to the attainment of full growth.

Substance abuse: In this study, substance abuse refers to the misuse of legal products
(prescription medications) and illegal products such as cocaine and cannabis, which are harmful
to adolescents‟ well-being as well as the welfare of the society.

Adolescent
Adolescent refers to a boy or girl between the ages 10 and 20 (Berk, 2007; Louw et al., 1998)

5
 CHARPTER TWO
LITERATURE REVIEW
2.1 Introduction
This chapter encompasses the review of existing theoretical and empirical literature to the role of
the media in fighting against drug abuse in Uganda. The review is based on the study objectives.

2.2 Causes of drug abuse

People use drugs for various reasons including low self-esteem, being reared in addictive or
dysfunctional family, lack of decision making and problem solving skills, inability to cope with
stress, lack of positive alternatives to drug use and drug information (Engs RC 1987). According
to Archer L Coles S and Girard M (1986), drug abuse is because of some individuals and groups
who have mounted effort to purge publications from libraries and bookstores that are soft on
drugs have misleading information or suggest responsible use of alcohol.

According to Hawkins J, et al (1985), young people often experiment with drugs to rebel against
authority figures such as parents, teachers, clergy and police. Ghetto youth sometimes have
powerful role models for drug use and may perceive it as a way to avoid the pain of their urban
situation. Children are naturally curious and drug experimentation often is related to curiosity.
Young people from addicted and troubled families, who have the highest potential for drug abuse
and use, often use drugs to obtain attention and love from their parents and to escape from
intolerable home environment. The age at which these risk factors are encountered by susceptible
teens may dictate what influences they have on them and the progression of illicit behavior.
These risk factors can be broadly classified under family risk factors, individual risk factors and
miscellaneous risk factors. The family risks include; inadequate parental supervision, poor
communication, family tension and conflicts, inconsistent or unduly severe parental discipline,
broken homes, and family history of parental alcohol and drug abuse (Rebecca Volker, 1998),
(Brook JS, Brook DW and Zhang C 2009).

6
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (2011) and Latimer W, Azur J (2010), the
examples of the individual risk factors include history of early childhood negative and aggressive
Behaviors, history of physical or sexual abuse, being male, Caucasian and an older adolescent,
emotional, social or academic difficulties, poor impulse control, unstable emotions, thrill seeking
behaviors and very low perception of the dangers inherent in drug use.

The miscellaneous factors include; low social economic status, level of education, living in a
high crime and drug us neighborhood, ease of drug availability, peer group pressure and history
of mental illness Jonnes SE, Oeltmann J, Wilson T.W et al (2001) and Patel DR (1999), Lord S,
Brevard J and Budman S (2011).

According to Power et al (1996), Boys et al (2000) and Wimberley and Price (2000), users often
use drugs concurrently to improve the effects of another drug or to help manage its negative
effects. For many young people, the decision to use a drug is based on a rational appraisal
process, rather than a passive reaction to the context in which a substance is available (Boys et
al, Wimberley and Price 2000).

According to Joseph Julian (1980), the causes of drug abuse are; to ease pain, to increase
alertness, to relax tension, to lose weight, to fight depression and to prevent pregnancy. Some
many drugs are abused because they so easily available. In addition, the persuasive advertising of
drugs also leads to their abuse. Drug companies spend one fourth of their income on advertising,
trying to convince consumers that there is something. For some Americans, 112 million drinkers,
the use of alcohol is a normal, pleasant, sociable activity, for others it is a spur to enable them
work, a sedative to calm them down, or a kind of anesthetic to dull the pain of living. Many
young people turn to alcohol for the same reasons their parents do, to have a good time, to escape
from the stress of everyday life and to conform to normative social behavior.

Drug usage in Africa amongst young people is associated with social and psychological damage
produced by social upheavals and civil war. In other words, it is associated with the challenging
social-economic material conditions found within most countries in the continent. Young people

7
also use or abuse drugs for a variety of reasons. One cannot generalize the reasons given by
young people of Africa for the use or experimenting with drugs (Honwana and Lamb, 1998).
With the young people in the United Kingdom, some reasons given for using drugs are;
relaxation or stress relief, fun, excitement and happiness. Young people in the U.K have made
very few negative associations with drugs, namely health (10%) and hangovers after effect 84%
(Bureau of Justice and Statistics BJS 1992).

In Australia, young people use drugs for the same reasons as adults and youth in other parts of
the word. They use drugs for relaxation and fun, dealing with inhabitation, coping with pressure
and frustration, to relieve stress and anxiety or pain and to overcome boredom. Some of the
drugs are perceived as acceptable norms in society. (National Institute on Drug Abuse 2000).

2.3 Effects of drug abuse

The effects of substance abuse can be felt on many levels that is to say on the individual, on
friends, family and on the society.

2.3.1 Effects on the individual

According to Nowinisik J (1990), people who use drugs experience a wide array of physical
effects other than those expected. The excitement of cocaine high, for instance is followed by a
crash, a period of anxiety, fatigue, depression and an acute desire for more cocaine to alleviate
the feelings of the crash. Marijuana and alcohol interfere with motor control and are factors in
many automobile accidents. Users of marijuana and hallucinogenic drugs may experience flash
back, unwanted recurrences of drug’s effects weeks or months after use. Sudden abstinence from
certain drugs results in withdrawal symptoms for example; heroin withdrawal can cause
vomiting, muscle cramps, convulsions and delirium. With the continued use of a physically
addictive drug, tolerance develops that i.e. constantly increasing amounts sharing hypodermic
needles used to inject some drugs dramatically increases the risk of contradicting AIDS and
some types of hepatitis, prostitution and from the disinheriting effect of some drugs, also puts
them at a higher risk of AIDS and other STDs. Because the purity and dosage of illegal drugs are
uncontrolled drug over dose is a constant risk. According to Nowinisik J (1990), there are over
10,000 deaths directly attributed to drug abuse in US every year; the substances most frequently
involved are cocaine, heroin, and morphine often combined with alcohol or other drugs. Many

8
drug users engage in criminal activity, such as burglary and prostitution, to raise the money to
buy drugs, and some drugs specially alcohol are associated with violent behavior.

2.3.2 Effects on the family

The user’s perception with the substance, plus its effects on mood and performance, can lead to
marital problems and poor work performance or dismissal. Drug use can disrupt family life and
create destructive patterns of codependence that is, the spouse or whole family out of love or fear
of consequences, inadvertently enables the user to continue using drugs by covering up,
supplying money or denying there is a problem (. Massingi 1996). Pregnant drug users, because
of drugs themselves or poor self-care in general, bear a much higher rate of low birth weight
babies than average. Many drugs e.g. crack and heroine cross the placental barrier, resulting in
addicted babies who go through withdrawal soon after birth and fetal alcohol syndrome can
affect children of mothers who consume alcohol during pregnancy. Pregnant women who
acquire the aids virus through intravenous drug use pass the virus to their infant. (Mc Donald
1986).

2.3.3 Effects on the society

According to the Columbia Encyclopedia (2013), drug abuse affects society in many ways. In the
work place it is costly in terms of lost work time and inefficiency. Drug users are more likely
than non-users to have occupational accidents, endangering themselves and those around them.
Over half of the high way deaths in the US involve alcohol. Drug related crime can disrupt
neighborhoods due to violence among drug dealers, threats to residents, and the crimes of addicts
themselves. In some neighborhoods, younger children are recruited as lookouts, helpers because
of the lighter sentences given to juvenile offenders, and guns have become common place among
children and adolescents. The great majority of homeless people have either a drug or alcohol
problem or a mental illness many have all the three.

According to Joseph Julian (1980), over a long period of time, large amounts of alcohol destroy
liver cells and cause them to be replaced by scar tissue. This condition-cirrhosis of the liver is the
sixth most frequent cause of death (approximately 33000 a year) in the U.S. Heavy drinking also
contributes to a wide range of heart ailments, and there is some evidence that alcohol contributes
to the incidence of cancer. Studies indicate that alcohol is implicated in more than 10,000

9
suicides annually. Alcohol has also got an effect on the family for example, the children of an
alcoholic parent frequently develop severe physical and emotional illness and marriage to an
alcoholic often ends in divorce or dissertation. An alcoholic parent may eventually become
unable to provide financial support and poverty may ensue.

Other authors like Crowe. A. H and Sydney (2000) say different drugs have different effects for
example heroin. Upon injecting it, many users experience a “rash” or wave of sensations
somewhat like an intense sexual orgasm. The rash does not last long and is followed by a mild
sense of euphonia, the relaxation of tensions and the disappearance of any physical pains. Heroin
and other opiates are physically addictive, and its addicts who stop using the drug suffer from
serious withdrawal symptoms including cramps, nausea, muscle tremors, diarrhea, chills and
extreme nervousness. Common diseases among heroin users such as hepatitis are a result of
unsanitary, paraphernalia as when several persons share the same needles. Shared needles are
also a means by which HIV virus that causes AIDS is transmitted.

2.4 The role of the media in fighting drug abuse among the youths in Uganda
According to Barret (2006), the media has come to play an increasingly important role in public
campaigns due to its wide reach and ability to influence behaviour. It has contributed to positive
development like in the fight against HIV/AIDS, gender bias, poverty and racism. And now there
is urgent need to use the full power of the same media to educate and enable Kenyan youth to
shun substance abuse and illicit drugs. This includes preventing drug abuse, encouraging current
users to quit and exposing illegal trade in drugs. There is significant evidence that carefully
planned mass media campaigns can reduce substance abuse by countering false perceptions that
drug use is normative and influencing personal beliefs that motivate drug use.

According to McCaffry (1999), the media can play an ameliorative role in the war against drug
by educating the youth (the target group) and providing them with the knowledge to reject drugs,
by preventing them from initiating use of drugs especially marijuana and by convincing the
occasional user to stop using drug altogether. Lending credence to the ability of the mass media
to combat crime, an official of the National Narcotics Control Commission in China opined that;
the Chinese government has decided to launch a peoples’ war against drugs aimed at checking
the sources of drugs, curbing the harmful influence of drugs and keeping the number of drug
addicts from growing. Based on the above, the Chinese official notes that “it is crucial to

10
increase the public’s awareness of drug prevention during the war against drugs through the use
of local mainstream media as major fields to publicize the drug information” McCaffry (1999) .

According to Burgoon M (2011), the mass media are capable of facilitating short term,
intermediate term and long term influences on audience members. In the context of drug war, the
mass media can perform three key functions- educating, shaping public relations and advocating
a particular policy or point of view. As education tools, the mass media do not only impart
knowledge but can be a part of efforts to promote actions having social utility. As public
relations tools, the mass media assist organizations in achieving credibility and respect among
public health opinion leaders, stakeholders and gate keepers. As advocacy tools, the mass media
assist leaders in setting a policy agenda, shaping debates about controversial issues and gaining
support for particular viewpoints.

According to Robert D. Austin (2007) sates that Media programs do more than move
communities forward; they serve their members by creating jobs and providing pathways to
opportunity for young people entering the workforce. Media places thousands of young adults
into intensive service positions where they learn valuable work skills, earn money for education,
and develop an appreciation for citizenship which help the youth from being idle.

11
 CHAPTER THREE

METHODOLOGY

3.0 Introduction
This chapter provides a description of how data was collected. It covers the research design, data
types, data collection methods, data analysis and limitations that the researcher encountered in
the process of collecting the data.

3.1 Research design

The researcher used a descriptive survey research design in the study in which both qualitative
and quantitative approaches were used. The qualitative aspects dealt with identifying the causes
of drug abuse among the youths and qualitative aspects dealt with identifying the role of the
media in fighting drug abuse among the youth.

3.2 Study area and population

The study was conducted in Nabuttiti slum, Kampala city and it targeted 100 people from
selected media practitioners, local councils, NGOs and so forth. A manageable number of
respondents were used to provide relevant data.

3.3 Sample procedure and size

The study involved 100 respondents. This sample size was assumed by the researcher to be
representative enough of the entire population. The respondents included 10 media practitioners,
60 local councils, 10 NGOs and 20 so forth.

3.4 Data sources

Two sources of data were used. These included the secondary and primary sources.

3.5.1 Primary Sources

Primary data is that kind of data that has been gathered for the first time, it has never been
reported anywhere. Short comings of secondary data sources such as out datedness and
inadequacy in terms of coverage, necessitated the use of primary sources for the first time. A
self-administered questionnaire was used and this enabled the researcher to cover a large
population quickly and at a reasonable cost.

12
3.5.2 Secondary sources
Roston (2011) defines secondary data as that kind of data that is already available. It included
policy documents and abstracts of various scholars relating to the study. Secondary data was got
from libraries, publications, internet and unpublished research reports.

3.6 Methods of data collection and instruments

Data was collected through comprehensive review of works of different scholars; similarities and
differences on specific concepts as given by the different scholars were analyzed with the
objective of identifying relationships between the study variables.

3.6.1 Questionnaires
A questionnaire is a reformulated set of written questions to which respondents record their
answers, usually with defined alternatives. The questionnaire was used once the bases that the
variables under study cannot be observed for instance the views, opinions, perceptions and
feelings of the respondents. The questionnaire was equally used because the information had to
be collected from a large sample in a short period of time yet the respondents can read and write.
This involved both open and close ended questions administered to respondents in Nabuttiti
slum, Kampala city.

3.6.2 Interviews
The researcher also used interviews. An interview is a dialogue between an interviewer and
interviewee. This is a method where the researcher interviews respondents to obtain information
on the issue of interest. In this case, the interviews during this research were structured and
specifically administered to respondents of Nabuttiti slum, Kampala city.

3.7 Data processing

Data collected from the field was preceded manually. This involved collecting and tabulating the
information from questionnaires. Responses were enumerated according to recorded categories,
intervals and commonality of the responses. Data processing started by editing the schedules and
coding the responses. Editing, Coding and Tabulation techniques was used in data processing
exercise

13
3.7.1 Data analysis and presentation
Quantitative data was presented in form of descriptive statistics using tables. Qualitative data
was sorted and grouped into themes. The researcher thereafter evaluated and analyzed the
adequacy of information in answering the research questions through coding of data. Qualitative
data was presented using narrative text.

3.8 Ethical considerations

Before going to the field, the researcher began with getting authorization letter from the
Principal, College of Humanities and Social Sciences then took it to the respondents and this
enabled the researcher attain adequate information from the respondents. During the process of
data collection, confirmation was given to the respondents in that the researcher assured the
respondents that the reason for the research was for academic purpose only.

3.9 Limitations of the study

Time constraint was a major limitation to the researcher which hindered her from doing a
thorough research, thus leaving the area of the study for further research and was solved by
drafting proper work plan in time for preparation.

Financial constraints hindered the researcher in the course of gathering relevant information. As
such, one is advised to save money so as to meet the financial requirements in research lastly,
bureaucracy in some libraries where one is supposed to apply to use the facilities was solved
through solicit funds from parents and friends.

Hostility among some respondents was also other limitations of the study in the sense that the
researcher found that there was hostile respondents who in the long run turned down the request
of the researcher to answer the questions. Many of such respondents walked away in spite of the
fact that the researcher tried to plead for their attention.

14
 CHAPTER FOUR
PRESENTATION OF FINDINGS
4.1 Introduction
While the previous chapters provided a guide to the study and how it was conducted this chapter
presents the findings as obtained from the field from the respondents. The chapter is divided into
sections; which include socio-demographic characteristics of the respondents, the causes of drug
abuse among youths, effects of drug abuse and the role of the media in fighting against drug
abuse. The research targeted 100 respondents, but only 70 respondents participated in the study
because the researcher could not locate them at the time of collecting the questionnaires.

4.2 Socio-demographic characteristics

The demographic characteristics of respondents are presented among which include; sex, age,
educational background, marital status, position held, subjects taught and classes taught.

4.2.1 Table 1: Sex of the respondents

Sex Frequency Percentage (%)

Male 25 35.7

Female 45 64.3

Total 70 100%

Source: Primary data, 2016

The respondents were asked to indicate their sex and it was found that majority were males
(35.7%) who were engaged in the study and 64.3% of them were females as indicated in table 1
below since male respondents were more than the females this means that males in this area are
more likely to engage in drug use. This implied that the researcher included more females than
males.

15
4.2.2 Table 2: Age of the respondents
Age group Frequency Percentage
14-25 15 21.4
26-30 25 35.7
31-35 20 28.6
36+ 10 14.3
Total 70 100%
Source: Primary Data, 2016

4.2.3 Figure 1: The age of respondents

Source: Primary data, 2016

The respondents were asked to state their age and it was found that the majority (35.7) were in
the age bracket of 26-30 years, 21.4 were between 14-25 years, 28.6% were between 31-35 and
only 14.3% were 36 years and above. This shows that respondents between 26-30 years
responded more compared to other age set because most drug addicted people arrange between
that ages.

16
4.3 The various drugs used by youth in Nabuttiti slum, Kampala city
The study focused on identifying the factors contributing to increasing rates of drug abuse among
the youths.

4.3.1 Figure 2: Youth involvement in drug use

Source: Primary Data, 2016

In this case respondents indicated that 30% were engaging in drug abuse, 65% said no and 5%
never responded to the question, meaning that many youths of Nabuttiti slum, Kampala city to
some extent are engaging in drug abuse because of being jobless, idle and group influence as the
major causes of drug abuse in the area.

4.3.2 Figure 3: The drugs commonly abused by youth in Nabuttiti slum, Kampala city

Source: Primary Data, 2016

When the researcher asked the respondents, they reported alcohol as the most abused drug with
35%, 15% tobacco users inform of cigarette smoking, 20% reported marijuana (canarab’s

17
satina), 13% reported inhalant use, 10% reported prescription drugs which are medical
administered but abused by youths and the least used substance was cocaine reported at 7%,
implying that a number of drugs are abused by youth of which the easier ones to get are; alcohol,
marijuana and tobacco. They are more frequently abused because of being cheap compared to
cocaine where they have to put in high amounts of money to get.

4.3.3 Figure 4: Percentage distribution of drugs abused according to gender

Source: Primary data, 2016

Figure 4 shows the percentage distribution of drugs abused according to gender.

The study found that 37% of the males took alcohol as compared to 42% of females, 28% of
males took marijuana as compared to 25% of females, 15% females were found to use
Prescription drugs more than males 10% while no females were found using cocaine yet 15% of
the males used it. This meant that females take alcohol more than males, males use marijuana
than females and females take prescription drugs more than males in this area.

18
4.4 Causes of drug abuse among youths in Nabuttiti slum, Kampala city
As the major theme of the study; a number of factors were identified that could be contributing
to the increasing rates of drug abuse among the youths. The respondents were asked to state
their stand on the issues they were asked as shown in the following sub-sections.

4.4.1 Table 3: Stress influences youth abuse drugs

Response Frequency Percentage (%)

Yes 45 64.3

No 20 28.6

No response 5 7.12

Total 70 100%

Source; primary data, 2016

Table 3 shows stress influencing youth to abuse drugs. Stress as being a challenge to human life
respondents agreed that it is one of the factors contributing or causing youths to abuse drugs,
64.3% said yes, 28.6% said no and 7.12% never responded to the question implying that stress
which may be caused by a number of factors like family issues or unemployment tends to drive
the youth into taking and abusing drugs. This implied that stress causes drug abuse.

4.4.2 Table 4: Peer pressure and drug abuse

Response Frequency Percentage (%)

Yes 41 58.6

No 25 35.7

No response 04 8

Total 70 100

Source: Primary Data, 2016

When asked about whether peer pressure was one of the factors contributing to increasing rates
of drug abuse among the youth, 58.6% respondents said yes, 35.7% said No and 8% never
responded to the question.

19
This means that the peers with whom the youth associate with are the very people who contribute
to their negative behaviours and actions. Where a youth is engaging in abusing drugs, the
likelihood of influencing the other colleagues is high. This is presented in table 4.

4.4.3 Table 5: Unemployment

Response Frequency Percentage (%)

Yes 50 71,4

No 15 21.4

No response 5 7.1

Total 70 100%

Source: Primary Data, 2016

When asked about unemployment the majority 71.4% of respondents in the study agreed that
unemployment contributes to drug abuse among the youths. Only 21.4% said no and 7.1% did
not respond to the question. Therefore, the level of unemployment among youths has
significantly led them to use and abuse drugs with hope to forget about their worries and having
themselves occupied. This is presented in table 5.

4.4.4 Table 6: Psychological disorders

Response Frequency Percentage (%)
Support 35 50
Disagree 30 43
No response 5 7.1
Total 70 100%
Source: Primary Data, 2016

Psychological disorders experienced by the youths, when asked 50% of the respondents
supported that they contributed to drug abuse, 43% disagreed and 7.1% never responded to the
question.

Thus psychological disorders that youth encounter in their day today life acts as a factor
influencing youth’s engagement into drug abuse. This is presented in table 6.

20
4.4.5 Table 7: Family background and drug abuse
Response Frequency Percentage (%)

Strongly agree 10 14.8

Agree 35 50
Disagree 12 17.2
Strongly disagree 10 14.8
Not sure 03 5
Total 70 100%
Source; primary data, 2016

The family set-up and the way one was groomed contribute much to an ideal person and
character in that person. Family background has been a possible cause of drug abuse among the
youths. According to respondents 50% agreed and 14.8% strongly agreed that it has great
contribution since a person’s behaviours are determined by the way he/she was brought up.

On further investigations, 17.2% disagreed and 14.8 strongly disagreed, the rest not being sure
implying that the family plays less contribution to one’s engagements in drugs hence most of
these kinds of characters are adopted as one grows up but outside the family of fearing to be
noticed.

4.5 Effects of drugs on youth’s wellbeing

Drug abuse has an impact it causes to the people, environment social systems and the changes
eventually occur, drug abuse also poses stringent and diverse consequences to human race. These
may be economic psychological, mental, social and environmental. The study examined the
different effects that drug abuse has caused to the youths as shown below.

21
4.5.1 Table 8: Loss of jobs

Response Frequency Percentage (%)

Yes 35 50

No 20 28.6

No response 15 21.4

Total 70 100%

Source; primary data, 2016

When respondents were asked to indicate whether drug abuse caused loss of jobs, 50% of them
said yes, 28.6 said no and 21.4% never responded to the question. This means that since drugs
cause personal weaknesses in the normal functioning of an individual one is also likely to make
mistakes which may cost the employers, hence such reasons contribute to one’s termination from
work.

4.5.2 Table 9: Dropping out of school

Response Frequency Percentage (%)

Strongly agree 20 28.6

Agree 30 43

Disagree 15 21.4

Not sure 5 7.1

Total 70 100%

Source: Primary Data, 2016

During the study, it was noted that many youths drop out of schools due to drug abuse like any
college, institution have rules and regulations that guide them to abide by among which does not
tolerate drugs, that one found in the act may be expelled from school. When asked respondents
43% agreed that some youth had dropped out of school 28.6% strongly agreed and 21.4%
disagreed with it. Drugs cause a number of indiscipline cases which are not accepted in schools

22
thus drugs significantly impact on one’s education leading to school dropout.

4.5.3 Table 10: Engage in bad acts leading to drug abuse

Response Frequency Percentage (%)

Yes 50 71.4

No 15 21.4

No response 05 7.1

Total 70 100%

Source: Primary Data, 2016

Engaging in bad behaviours like stealing and robbing, beating up people, while killing other
people may result in case a person is under the influence of dangerous drugs when respondents
were asked about this 71.4% said yes, 21.4% said no and 7.1% never responded to the question.
This means that the more the youths engage in drug abuse, the more likely they will involve
themselves in bad acts.

23
 CHAPTER FIVE

SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION

5.1 Introduction
While the previous chapter presented the findings of the study and analysis, this chapter presents
a summary of the findings, conclusions drawn from the findings and the recommendations.

5.2 Summary of the findings

The study revealed those who engaged in drugs that 37% of males took alcohol as compared to
the 42% females, 25% of the males took marijuana as compared to 28% females. The study
found only 15% females to be using prescription drugs more than the males 10% and no female
was found to taking cocaine yet 15% of the males used it.

5.3 To examine the causes of increased drug abuse among the youth in Uganda
The first research question sought to find out the causes of drug abuse among the youth at
Nabuttiti slum, Kampala city. The questions were tested using the media practitioners, local
councils and NGOs. When questions were subjected to the questionnaires, it was also accepted
implying that there are causes of drug abuse among the youth. The findings revealed that
(majority) 30% reported that they were involved in using some types of drugs although some
indicated that they did not.
The study found that majority (38%) of the respondents reported that the drugs were obtained
from drug users who distribute them in the hope of getting some money. Others reported from
traders dealing in this business for example those involved in alcohol and tobacco selling or from
some plantations with drugs like marijuana while others reported buying from some markets.

Family background was found as a possible cause of drug abuse among the youth, the study
found that majority (30%) of the respondents agreed that it had much influence since the ways of
acting are determined by the way the person was brought up.

In an oral interview with the councils from Nabuttiti slum, Kampala city indicated that the causes
of drug abuse among are; most of the youth in Nabuttiti slum, Kampala city are jobless since they
do not have jobs that can make them busy, they end up being involved in taking drugs.

Peer pressure was one of the factors found to be contributing to drug abuse, among the youths.

24
While at the study, when asked a significant percentage of the respondents, (36%) agreed that
too much freedom given to youths influences their engagement in drug abuse.

5.3.2 To examine the direct and indirect effects of drug abuse

The second research question sought to find out the effects of drug abuse. On the possible
consequences of drug abuse, it was found that it caused dropping out of school, with majority
agreeing (60%). Additionally, the study found that most of the youths involved in drug abuse
engage in bad behaviours like stealing and robbing. The study also found a link between drug
abuse causing madness to youths were majority 40% of the respondents agreed that this
happened at some point in time to a youth engaging in drug abuse.

While interviewing respondents, it was found out that most of them use radio as a medium of
communication (60%), 25% watch televisions and 15% use newspapers. This implies that
majority of the people use radios to get information about drug abuse.

The majority of the respondents (50%) agreed that the media educates, sensitizes and informs
about drug abuse and its dangers, (30%) said that though the media does these it also promotes
drug abuse through music and advertisement. The rest (20%) of the respondents said that media
both promotes and fights drug abuse.

5.3.3 To establish how the media fights drug abuse among youths
In an oral interview with one media respondent, it was found that as a media house they
emphasise the harmful of drugs for example maljuana, alcohol and all drugs that can cause
people’ lives. This is in line with Tomlinson and Wise (1999), discussed the benefits of mass
media programs as a tool to advocate for children’s rights and more specifically, promoting
awareness of, and to prevent child abuse. Tomlinson emphasizes that campaign strategies may
only be successful to the degree that they are backed by community education and direct support
programs.
The study also found out that majority respondents (70%) reported that the media’s work has not
been effective because of the continuing increase of drug abuse among the youths. The (15%)
respondents said that it is effective in that there has been a decrease and the rest did not say
anything implying that the media’s work has not been effective in fighting drug abuse among the
youths in Nabuttiti slum, Kampala city.

25
5.3 Conclusion
It can be concluded that youths engage in drug abuse and that they obtain drugs from within
people who leave in their communities or outside the communities. The factors contributing to
drug abuse are diverse and no single factor can independently be held as the one leading or
causing drug abuse among youth thus a number of them have to be considered. Lastly drug abuse
presents a number of threats to the wellbeing of the youths which affects relationships to
economic, health risks, social and personality development. The media does not intend to
promote drug abuse but it is just because of the misinterpretation of its messages.  The Radios
has had social, economic, political and cultural impact in the programs of the districts. The
station has largely been used as a tool for integrated rural development. The station has operated
within its mandate as a community radio with a social responsibility of providing community
news bulletins, current affairs, and sporting, culture and health programs. Thus, where
community members have failed to participate to their expectations is due to their personal
weakness and reluctance, but not due to lack of awareness, information education and
entertainment from the media.

5.4 Recommendations
The study came up with the following recommendations
Strict laws and measures should be undertaken by the government to curb the importation and
selling of drugs which are harmful to people. For the laws in place, they should be strengthened
to stop drug trafficking and selling and those arrested should hardly be punished. Parents should
also control and be responsible for the acts of their children particularly in the age bracket of 15
plus years. They need to be aware of the children’s movement and the people they associate with
in order to track those who engage in drug abuse.

Communities should be empowered with the techniques of identifying drug users. This will help
them detect such people when it’s still early and such people should be helped change and not
necessarily victimized. There is need for designing awareness campaigns and sensitizations
programs aimed at educating the youths about the dangers from drug abuse. This may be
undertaken by the government society, schools and NGOs working for the welfare of the youths.

Television should not be seen to glamorize drug trafficking or consumption bearing in mind the

26
fact that many audience members have been found to have infant minds. Media portrayals should
show drug business as bad and a sure way to ruin rather than show the society as according
honour to drug traffickers while celebrating drug barons.

Media houses should try to reduce or eliminate the appearance of these substances. We should
encourage musicians, actors, writers and producers to portray substance abuse in a realistic and
not glamorous way. Media involvement should include feature, news stories and sporadic mass
media education and prevention campaign. These campaigns will broaden community
knowledge on drug abuse, influence people’s attitudes towards addicts, change behaviours that
contribute to, or precipitate substance abuse.

27
 REFERENCES
Archer L Coles and Girard M. (1986). First National Conference on Alcohol and Drug Abuse
prevention NIDA/NIAAA Washington

Barret. (2006). Family Structure and Substance Use Problems in adolescent and early adulthood
examining explanation for the relationships addiction

Bureau of Statistics (BJS). (1992). Drugs, Crime and the Justice System. Washington, US
Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs

Burgoon, M. (2011). Mass media and drug prevention; Classic and Contemporary theories
Newjersey; Lawrence Carbaum Associate United Nations Research Institute for Social
development

Columbia Encyclopedia. (2013). Columbia University

Crowe. AH and Sydney. L. (2000). Ten Steps for Implementing a Program of Substance testing
of juveniles, Bulletin, Washington Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention

Engs RC. (1987). Alcohol and other drugs: Self responsibility Bloomington, Ind, Tichenon
publishing

Hawkins J et al. (1985). Childhood predictors and the prevention of adolescent substance abuse
Bttjes R (Ed) Ethiology of Drug Abuse Implications for prevention Washington

Jonnes SE, Oelmann, J Wilson (2011) Binge drinking among undergraduate college students in
the United States; implications for other substance use (pub med)

Joseph Julian. (1980). Social Problems California State. College at Bakersfied Prentice Hall Inc
Englewood Cliffs New Jerry

MC Caffry. (1990). Alcohol and other drugs. Self-Responsibility Bloomington, ind, Tinchenor
publishing

MC Donald. (1986). First National Conference on Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention:
Washington

28
M Massingi. (1996). A History of America’s Romance with Illegal Drugs Washington0

Nowinisik J. (1990). Substance Abuse in Adolescent and Young Adults: A Guide to treatment
New York, NY; W; W; W; Norton and Company

Rebecca Volker. (1998). Healthy Children Drug Abuse Prevention starts with parents: Stress,
Sleep loss and Substance Abuse Create potent recipe for college depression U.S

The New Vision. (March 2013). 45% of Ugandan youth take drugs and alcohol. By Violet
Nabatanzi.

29
 APPENDICES

APPENDIX 1: QUESTIONNAIRE
THE ROLE OF THE MEDIA IN FIGHTING DRUG ABUSE AMONG JOBLESS
YOUTH

Questionnaires for health workers, parents, and local leaders, community members and media
practitioners on drug abuse among youth Nabuttiti slum, Kampala city

Dear all respondents, this questionnaire is intended to gather information the role of the media in
fighting against drug abuse among the youth in Nabuttiti slum, Kampala city.

This research is part of the requirements for the award of a degree in Mass Communication at
Kampala International University.

You are therefore kindly requested to fill the instrument as objectively as possible for the
successful accomplishment of this academic program. This study is anticipated to contribute
towards creating awareness to youth against drug abuse in Nabuttiti slum, Kampala city

You are granted absolute confidentiality.

Thank you

30
Section A: Bio-data

(Please tick as appropriate or fill in the space provided by filling Yes/No)

Demographic characteristics

1. Name options ……………………………………………… Age ………………..

2. Sex ……………… Villages …………………………………

3. Parish …………………………………… Sub-County ………………………………..

4. District ………………………………… Educational level ………………………………

5. Position of responsibility ……………………………… Occupation ……………………

6. Marital status …………………………………………………………………………………

Section B: The various Drugs used by the youth in Nabuttiti slum, Kampala city.

7. Are you involved in using drugs?

(a)Yes (b) No

8. What drugs are commonly consumed by youth in this area? (Specify)

………………………………………………………………………………………………….

………………………………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………………….

31
9. For the drugs mentioned in Question 8 above, where do you think they are obtained from?

From Traders

Sold in markets

Distributed by drug users

Planted in gardens

Other (Specify)……………………………………………………………………………….

10. What category of the youth is engaged in this?

School drop outs

Business men/women

Idealess youths

Unemployed

Others (Specify)…………………………………………………………………………………

Section C: Causes of drug abuse among youths in Nabuttiti slum, Kampala city

11. Do you think that being unemployed may make someone engage in drug abuse?

(a)Yes (b) No

12. Is peer pressure one of the likely factors that may compel a youth to engage in drugs?

(a)Yes (b) No

13. Do you agree that a lot of freedom given to youths has made them engage in drug abuse?

(a) Strongly agree (b) Agree (c) Disagree

32
(d) Strongly disagree (e) not sure

14. Do you think psychological disorders can make a youth engage in drug abuse?

(a)Yes (b) No

15. Do you agree that the family background of someone may influence his or her engagement in
drug abuse?

(a) Strongly agree (b) Agree (c) Disagree

(d) Strongly disagree (e) Not sure

16. When a youth is stressed with life challenges, he or she may use drug to reduce.

(a) Yes (b) No

17. What other factors do you think may force a youth to engage in drug abuse?

………………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………..

Section D: Effects of drug abuse on youth welfare.

18. Do you agree some youths have developed mental disorders because of drug abuse?

(a) Strongly agree (b) Agree (c) Disagree

(d) Strongly disagree (e) not sure

19. Are there youths who have engaged in bad behaviours like stealing and robbing due to
drugs?

(a) Yes (b) No

20. Do you think drug abuse leads to madness among youth who use drugs?

(a)Yes (b) No

33
21. Do you agree that some youth have lost their jobs due to drug abuse?

(a) Yes (b) No

22. Do you agree that some youths dropped out of school because of using drugs?

(a) Strongly agree (b) Agree (c) Disagree

(d) Strongly disagree (e) Not sure

23. Under the influence of drugs, are there youths whose behaviors have resulted into contracting
HIV/AIDS and other STDs?

(a) Strongly agree (b) Agree (c) Disagree

(d) Strongly disagree (e) not sure

24. Do agree that some youths who use drugs have lost their life?

(a) Strongly agree (b) Agree (c) Disagree

(d) Strongly disagree (e) not sure

25. What other consequences have resulted from drug abuse among the youths?

………………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………

21. Suggest measures that may be undertaken to help youths abusing drugs overcome their
situations……………………………………………………………………………………….

………………………………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………………….

34
Section E: The role of the media in fighting against drug abuse among the youth in
Nabuttiti slum, Kampala city

26. Which media do you use?

(a) Radios (b) televisions

(C) Newspapers

27. Many youths have fallen victims of drug abuse because of the media. Do you agree?

(a) yes (b) no

28. To what extent do the media fight drug abuse?

(a) To a large extent (b) to a larger extent

29. The media fights drug abuse through educating, sensitization creating awareness and holding
talk shows. Do you agree or you disagree?

(a) Agree (b) Strongly agree

(c) Disagree (d) strongly disagree

30. Has the media’s work been effective?

(a) Yes (b) No

31. What else do you think the media should do to fight against drug abuse among the jobless
youths?

35
………………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Thank you for your co-operation

APPENDLX II: INTERVIEW GUIDE

Interview guide for informants (parents, health workers, community members, local
leaders, youths and the media practitioners)
I am conducting a research on “The Role of the Media in fighting against drug abuse among
youths in Nabuttiti slum, Kampala city” you have been selected as key respondents to participate in
this study. Would you please spare me a minute from your time and answer the following
questions? The information you give will be used for academic purposes.
1. Which category of youths is mostly involved in this practice?
2. Do you agree that many youths in this area are involved in drug abuse?
3. What are some of the commonly abused drugs by the youths?
4. Briefly highlight some of the factors which compel youths to engage in drug abuse.
5. Do you think that the family background plays a vital role in leading youth in drug abuse?
6. What are some of the consequences youths involved in drug abuse have experienced in this
area?
7. Suggest ways in which drug abuse among the youths may be overcome.
8. What do you understand by the term media?
10. What do you think the media should do to make its work effective?

36
 APENDIX III

WORK PLAN

ACTIVITY MONTHS

June July July Aug Sep

Proposal writing in its

early stage

Data collection

Submission of proposal

Pre-testing the tools

Report writing and

submission

Presentation

“if required”

37
 RESEARCH BUDGET

ITEM Amount
Stationary and other related costs 150,000
Transport 200,000
Communication 50,000
Photocopy 20,000
Typesetting and binding 50,000
Internet 20,000
Subsistence 25,000
Miscellaneous 35,000
Total 500,000

38