1UG Student Psychology, Dept of Psychology, Aligarh Muslim University, Uttar Pradesh, India
2Assistant Professor, Department of Forensic Medicine, Aligarh Muslim University, Uttar Pradesh, India
3Assistant Professor, Department of Forensic Medicine, Aligarh Muslim University, Uttar Pradesh, India
4Assistant Professor, Department of Psychology, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh
5Junior Resident, Department of Forensic Medicine, Aligarh Muslim University, Uttar Pradesh, India
6Junior Resident, Department of Forensic Medicine, Aligarh Muslim University, Uttar Pradesh, India
*Corresponding author. E-mail address: - asrar2km@gmail.com (Mohd Asrarul Haque) Mob. No. +918755198534
Online published on 19 June, 2025.
Substance misuse, also known as drug abuse, is defined by the harmful and hazardous use of drugs that not only damages the individuals involved but often impacts others as well. It continues to be a widespread global issue, with significant and far-reaching consequences, especially among young people.
The present study explores university students' attitudes, knowledge, and beliefs about substance misuse, with the goal of understanding the interaction between protective and risk factors that shape young people's behavior towards drug use.
Method for descriptive research was employed for assessing the “knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs” of university students with respect to misuse of drugs. There were 54 items which consisted the “survey instrument”.
• Knowledge and awareness “4 items”: Respondents’ familiarity with and knowledge of illegal drugs.
• Perceptions and beliefs “35 items”: Attitudes toward “drug use”, “drug users”, and “drug-related issues”.
• Socio-demographic data “15 items”: Information on demographic variables for correlational analysis.
The study provides valuable insights into the awareness levels and perceptions of university students, with demographic correlations adding depth to the findings and enhancing the understanding of how various factors influence attitudes toward substance misuse.
Acknowledging the crucial role of university students in the fight against drug abuse, this research emphasizes the need to understand their attitudes and beliefs. The results offer valuable information that can inform the institution of targeted interventions and policies aimed at addressing substance misuse within this demographic.
Drug Abuse, Knowledge, Attitude, Belief, University Students
