Drug Use Among Juveniles In The Observation, Protection Centers And Training Schools In Thailand: An Analysis Of Causal Factors

Abstract

The problem of drugs is considered to be crucial and it has become a significant issue in Thailand. This study aims to study drug use behavior and causal factors influencing drug use behaviors of children and juveniles in the Juvenile Observation and Protection Center and the Juvenile Training Schools. Quantitative research method was adopted for this study. The sample groups were children and juveniles in the Juvenile Observation and Protection Center and in the Juvenile Training Schools. The results of the study found that, all causal factors; attitude towards drugs use  behavior, perceived behavioral control, intention to commit to drug use behavior and outweighing factor could explain the variability of intent at 51% and could also explain the variability of drug use behaviors of children and juvenile at 54%, whereas, independent variables in relation to perceived behavioral control do significantly influence intent towards drug use behaviors. This study recommends guidelines for executives in planning a policy for those involved in the implementation of prevention, providing a therapeutic and rehabilitative solution for children and youths involved with drugs. Eventually, this study will be useful and beneficial for taking care of children and youths in the future.