THE EFFECT OF HEALTH EDUCATION THROUGH SOCIAL MEDIA IN PREVENTING DRUG ABUSE AMONG ADOLESCENTS

Abstract

Aims: This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of social media-based health education in preventing drug abuse among adolescents.

Methods: A quasi-experimental design with a nonequivalent control group was used, with pre- and post-test assessments to measure knowledge levels among 120 adolescents (60 in the intervention group and 60 in the control group). Health education via social media was conducted over one month. Data collection occurred before, immediately after, and one-month post-intervention. The CRAFFT scale was used to assess substance abuse risk, and repeated ANOVA analyzed changes in scores.

Results: The intervention group showed a significant decrease in CRAFTT scores from 3.23 ± 0.15 at pre-test to 2.75 ± 0.89 at the second post-test (F = -14.121, p = 0.001), indicating reduced risk behaviors. The control group showed a slight increase in scores over the same period, with no significant changes (F = 2.132, p = 0.561).

Conclusion: Integrating such digital strategies into school and community programs could support substance abuse prevention and promote healthier lifestyles among youth.