Author: Mr. SouravSarkar & Ms. Mrinalini Deb
DOI Link: https://doi.org/10.70798/Bijmrd/03050011
Abstract: Abuse can be defined as the excessive or improper use of a substance or practice, often motivated by dependency, escapism, or corrupt intentions that ultimately lead to harm. In this study, substance abuse—particularly among youth—is understood as the habitual misuse of harmful and addictive substances such as cocaine, marijuana, heroin, alcohol, and others. Among slum dwellers, the risk factors for such behavior are often compounded by poverty, lack of education, unemployment, and exposure to environments where drug use is either normalized or seen as a means of coping with hardship. This has led to a concerning rise in youth drug abuse, especially in urban marginalized areas.
The vulnerability of slum-dwelling youth to substance abuse is closely tied to the socio-economic instability they experience on a daily basis. Living conditions in slums are often overcrowded, unsanitary, and unsafe, leaving young people with limited access to recreational spaces, positive social engagement, or meaningful employment opportunities. With little hope for upward mobility or educational advancement, many youths turn to drugs as an escape from the harsh realities they face. In some cases, drug use becomes a social activity, reinforced by peer groups and local subcultures that view addiction not as a danger, but as a routine aspect of daily life.
Moreover, the absence of strong family structures and community-based support makes it even more difficult to intervene early or provide guidance to those at risk. Young people growing up in such environments often lack positive role models, and their exposure to crime, violence, and substance availability further normalizes addictive behaviors. Without targeted intervention, education, and rehabilitation efforts, these patterns are likely to continue, resulting in school dropout, deteriorating health, criminal involvement, and long-term socio-economic exclusion.
The goal of this research is to critically explore the patterns, causes, and consequences of youth drug abuse and to examine its significant implications for health, education, and social well-being. Addictive behavior among youth often stems from a complex interplay of peer pressure, emotional trauma, and socio-economic stressors. As a result, affected individuals suffer from a wide range of issues, including deteriorating physical and mental health, disrupted relationships, and declining participation in education. One of the most damaging consequences of addiction is school dropout, as addicted youth find it increasingly difficult to focus on studies, maintain regular attendance, or participate in academic life. Many students from vulnerable communities disengage from school permanently due to the influence of drugs, further limiting their future prospects. This educational disengagement, in turn, increases their exposure to risky behavior and, in some cases, leads to conflict with the law.
Indeed, youth involved in substance abuse are at a heightened risk of coming into contact with the juvenile justice system, often due to petty crimes, violence, or drug-related offenses. The criminalization of these behaviors not only disrupts their development but also perpetuates cycles of marginalization, making rehabilitation and reintegration more challenging. Thus, the phenomenon of youth drug abuse—especially among slum dwellers—is not an isolated issue but one that is deeply rooted in broader systemic inequalities. It calls for multi-layered strategies that include prevention programs, rehabilitation services, family counseling, and community-based interventions aimed at protecting youth, promoting education, and preventing addictive behavior from becoming a lifelong barrier to opportunity and well-being.
Keywords: Slum dweller, Substance abuse, Addictive behavior, Juvenile justice system, Youth drug abuse, School dropout.
Page No: 100-108