The psychosocial experiences of families affected by drug and substance abuse in high density suburbs of Zimbabwe: a case study of Highfield suburb, Harare. · Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Author

Dadirai, E Mariri

Title

The psychosocial experiences of families affected by drug and substance abuse in high density suburbs of Zimbabwe: a case study of Highfield suburb, Harare.

Abstract

ABSTRACT
This study sought to investigate on the psychosocial experiences of families affected by drug and substance abuse in high density suburbs of Zimbabwe with particular focus on Highfield high density suburb, Harare. The study was guided by three objectives which are, to assess the psychosocial experiences of families affected by drug and substance abuse, to identify the copying mechanisms used by families affected by drug and substance abuse and to develop measures that can be used to improve the plight of families affected by drug and substance abuse. This study adopted the family systems theory as it provides normative lenses for full exploration of the phenomenon under study. The study was underpinned by the qualitative methodology and as such, in-depth and key informant interviews coupled with focused group discussion were used as data collection methods. Twenty participants were sampled using the snowball sampling technique and four key informants using purposive sampling. Findings show that, the psychosocial experiences of families affected by drug and substance abuse are mental health problems which include stress and depression, social isolation and stigma, family conflicts and violence and financial difficulties. The findings highlighted the detrimental impact of drug and substance abuse on the overall well-being and quality of life of affected families. The recommendations suggested include, conducting awareness campaigns, policy reforms and advocacy, adequate resource allocation for family support and referral pathways strengthening and the formation of neighborhood watch programs among others so as to comprehensively address the unique needs of families dealing with substance abuse.

Date

JUNE 2024

Publisher

BUSE

Keywords

psychosocial experiences
substance abuse
high density suburbs of Zimbabwe
advocacy

Supervisor

NIL