Authors

Rafael Gómez Galán1, Mª José López Gómez2, Mª José Gallego Chaves3

Position

Departamento de Enfermería. Universidad de Extremadura¹, Consejería de Sanidad. Junta de Extremadura², Becaria de

Contact address

Centro Universitariio Mérida. C/ Sta. Teresa de Fornet, 38. 06800 Mérida, Badajoz

Contact email: rgomez@unex.es

Abstract

Objetives: to follow up on the experience, knowledge and attitudes with regards to drugs and its interrelation with family and friends. Methods: qualitative study in which different combined techniques were used enabling the measurement of knowledge levels, experience and attitudes of young people in regard to drugs. Results: young adults state that the use of cocaine has grown rapidly in recent years. These youngsters perceive drugs as something pleasant, with statements such as "I feel fine, I fly, I can stay up all night", a perception that is often ignored and neglected by the educators. Many of the "normal" youngsters will inevitably be exposed to drugs and expect this exposure to take place with minimal risks. Conclusions: the study concludes that there is a proportion of youngsters that are in contact with drugs at an earlier and earlier age, that a great variety of these drugs are easily accessible both social and geographically, and that youngsters expect a pleasant effect with minimal damage.

Keywords:

drugs; youngsters; adolescence; attitudes; in depth interview; informal interview; participant observation

Versión en Español

Título:

Jóvenes y uso de drogas en un área de salud de Extremadura