KNOWLEDGE AND ATTITUDE TOWARDS SUBSTANCE ABUSE AND ITS EFFECTS ON ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE AMONG STUDENTS IN BENSON IDAHOSA UNIVERSITY, BENIN CITY EDO STATE

Abstract

This study examined the knowledge and attitude toward substance abuse and its effects on academic performance among students of Benson Idahosa University, Benin City, Edo State. The objectives were to assess students’ knowledge of substance abuse, examine their attitudes toward it, investigate its impact on academic performance, explore their perceptions of its effects, and identify strategies to reduce substance use among students. A descriptive crosssectional survey design was adopted. Data were collected using a structured, self-administered electronic questionnaire distributed via Google Forms to undergraduate students. Responses were analysed using descriptive statistics, including frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations, and presented in tables and charts. A total of 251 valid responses were analysed. Findings revealed that 47.8% of respondents had fair knowledge of substance abuse, 42.0% had good knowledge, and 9.8% had poor knowledge, with a mean knowledge score of 5.16 ± 1.18, indicating moderate awareness overall. Attitude assessment showed that 43.0% of students exhibited positive attitudes, 41.0% were neutral, and 14.0% had strongly positive attitudes toward substance-abuse prevention (mean = 3.59 ± 0.56). Regarding the effects on academic performance, 81% of respondents agreed that substance abuse negatively affects academic achievement (mean = 4.05 ± 0.78). Furthermore, 91% supported preventive measures such as awareness campaigns, counselling, family support, and institutional policies (mean = 4.24 ± 0.78). The study concludes that Benson Idahosa University students possess moderate knowledge, positive attitudes, and strong awareness of the detrimental academic consequences of substance abuse. Strengthening university-based drug education, counselling, and preventive programs is recommended to sustain and enhance healthy behavioural practices among students. Keywords: Substance abuse, knowledge, attitude, academic performance, preventive strategies, university students.