Investigating Attitudes Towards Drug Use; Age and Gender Differences

Howell, Mica (2021) Investigating Attitudes Towards Drug Use; Age and Gender Differences. Undergraduate thesis, Dublin, National College of Ireland.

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Abstract

Aim: The current study sought to update the existing literature by carrying out research examining attitudes towards drug use within an Irish context. The study examined age group differences in drug use attitudes, while also exploring gender differences.

Method: Hypotheses were analysed through the use of a cross-sectional research design and a quantitative approach was employed. A sample of n = 374 (male = 103, female = 271) completed an online questionnaire which examined attitudes towards drug use. A refined version of Drug related knowledge, attitudes and beliefs in Ireland and the full version of Attitudes to drug use scales were used to assess attitudes towards drug use.

Results: Statistical analysis found that the age group 18-30 obtained higher attitude scores than those aged 31-50, indicating that they held more positive attitudes towards drug use. Additionally, males also obtained higher attitude scores than females, indicating more positive attitudes towards drug use.

Conclusion: Findings provide a greater understanding of the importance of examining attitudes towards drug use. More importantly, findings provide an insight into attitude differences within an Irish context. On a practical level, findings show the need for the implementation of interventions at an educational level for young people regarding drug use.

Item Type:	Thesis (Undergraduate)
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > Psychology
Divisions:	School of Business > BA (Honours) in Psychology
Depositing User:	Clara Chan
Date Deposited:	11 Aug 2021 15:56
Last Modified:	16 Sep 2021 15:16
URI:	https://norma.ncirl.ie/id/eprint/4939

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