Effects of Drug Abuse on Social Behaviour of Adolescents as Perceived by Social Studies Teachers in Bayelsa State

This study examines Social Studies teachers' perceptions of the effects of drug abuse on the social behaviour of adolescents in secondary schools in Bayelsa State, South South Nigeria. Drug abuse among adolescents has become an increasingly documented challenge in the South South geopolitical zone, with reported links to truancy, violence, and social disengagement. Social Studies teachers, given their focus on civic and values education, are well positioned to observe and address drug-related behavioural changes in their students. Using a descriptive survey design, 60 Social Studies teachers from 20 secondary schools in Yenagoa Local Government Area were surveyed using a structured questionnaire. Data were analysed using frequency counts and percentages, with themes extracted from open-ended responses. Findings reveal that teachers observed increasing incidences of aggressive behaviour, poor concentration, and truancy among students perceived to be using substances. Teachers reported feeling inadequately prepared to address drug-related behavioural issues in Social Studies classrooms. The study recommends the integration of drug abuse prevention modules into the Social Studies curriculum and professional development training for teachers on adolescent substance use management. Community health partnerships are also recommended. Keywords: drug abuse, adolescent behaviour, Social Studies teachers, Bayelsa State, secondary schools.