Propensity and Patterns of Substance Use Disorders in Niger Delta University, Bayelsa State –Nigeria

The study specifically examines the propensity and patterns of substance use disorders among students of different age groups. The students’ propensity to save was analyzed using the ratio of the average amount spent on substance use to the total average income. The patterns of substance use disorders among students of different age groups were examined using frequency and simple percentages. At the same time, a one-way ANOVA test and Tukey posthoc test were conducted to determine if there was a statistically significant difference in the patterns of substance use disorders among different student age groups, and which group among the various age groups may differ (significantly) from each other.

Empirical results showed that students do have a significant propensity to substance use disorder, and the average propensity to substance use disorder generally increases with age. A marginal propensity to substance use disorder of about 36 percent and 54 percent were found for the student's age groups 24 to 33 years and 34 to 40 years. It was also found that the most common patterns of substance use disorder for every age group of students were smoking and swallowing. Though there are different patterns of substance use disorders, no significant difference in substance use disorders between students' age groups was found.

Based on the above, the study recommended sensitization, targeted to students of all age groups to discourage drug use on university campuses. Also, well-designed mobilization and programs should be implemented to reduce the potential for voluntary substance use disorders among students in universities.