Psychological Distress, Negative Life Event and Personality Trait as Predictors of Substance Abuse among Youths in Ibadan Metropolis

This study examined the role of psychological distress, negative life event and personality traits as predictors of substance abuse among youths in Ibadan metropolis. This study employed a descriptive, cross sectional and purposive sampling technique design. Data was collected through quantitative using questionnaire survey. A standardized questionnaire was administered to a total of 267 respondents. The statistical package for the social science (SPSS version 23) was used to analyze using descriptive and inferential statistics (Univariate, bivariate and multivariate regression analyses). Persons’ r moment correlation coefficient-test analysis, and multiple regression analysis were used to analyze the data obtained. Five objectives were stated to guild this study. The theoretical framework for this study was biological model, transactional model of stress coping and big five trait theory. Instrumentation included the psychological distress scale (K6). A 6- items self – constructed questionnaire was developed by the researchers. It had a general reliability coefficient of 0.87 using Cronbach alpha. Hypothesis one was tested using Zero order correlation relationship analysis, hypothesis two and five was tested using independent sample T-test while hypothesis three and four was tested using multiple regression analysis. The findings revealed that psychological distress, negative life event and personality traits with psychotropic substances, antagonism mental health state examination of the youths stands as the key indicators of substance abuse. Early assessment, specific diagnosis might help patient vulnerably and elevated risk to psychoactive substances. Interventions designed to build effective coping skills, emotional intelligence, and positive emotional mental wellbeing will serve as an effective coping skill to prevent substance abuse.