Negative impact of social media on substance abuse: Knowledge of preventive strategies among adolescence in Akwa Ibom state secondary schools

The increasing influence of social media on adolescents has raised concerns about its role in promoting substance abuse, which has become a menace among adolescents in the society. This study examined preventive strategies against the influence of social media on substance abuse among adolescents in secondary schools in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. Utilising a cross-sectional descriptive survey design, data was collected from 351 students selected through the Krejcie and Morgan formula and multistage technique using a validated self-structured questionnaire with a Cronbach alpha of 0.82. Data analysis with SPSS version 26 revealed 68.9% female respondents in this study. Findings revealed that the students are aware that social media promote drug abuse and related risks among users. The study also indicated parental monitoring and guidance, media literacy education and educational content, and peer support groups as the three most effective strategies for preventing the influence of social media on drug abuse among adolescents. There was a significant relationship between knowledge of preventive strategies and their influence on social media. Although adolescents possess considerable knowledge of preventive strategies against social media influence on substance abuse, social media-related factors hinder strategy utilisation. Strengthening parental involvement and media (digital) literacy programmes is recommended.