TYPOLOGY OF DRUG USE IN ADOLESCENTS AND ITS INFLUENCE ON ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE

Abstract

The consumption of psychoactive substances during adolescence is a significant problem in today’s society. This issue is linked to school risk factors, such as absenteeism and poor academic performance. Previous studies have shown that substance use can affect cognitive, emotional, and behavioral development in adolescents, as well as their academic achievement and motivation. However, there is a lack of research on the specific patterns and effects of substance use among Ecuadorian adolescents. The objective of this study was to analyze substance use by adolescents and its influence on academic performance in a private school in Rocafuerte, Ecuador. In addition, causes and consequences related to substance use and academic performance were identified. A non-experimental, descriptive-correlational design with a quantitative approach was used. The data were collected through sociodemographic questionnaires (Ad Hoc) and ESTUDES, (2021) published by the National Drug Plan. The sample consisted of 237 students between the ages of 13 and 18 (M= 15.03, SD= 1.474). 59.1 % of the sample were women (n=140), 40.1 % were men (n=95), and 8 % were others (n=2). The results showed that alcohol consumption at some point in life, 12 months, and the last 30 days positively correlated with missing classes and grades. 70 % of the students claimed to have consumed alcohol at some time and 37.6 % e-cigarettes. It was concluded that substance use in adolescents can have a significant impact on their academic performance. These results are discussed in the following sections.