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Substance Abuse Treatment, Prevention, and Policy

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Open Access 01-12-2017 | Research

Use of crystal methamphetamine among male adolescents in Cape Town, South Africa: Caregivers' experiences

Authors: Kwaku Oppong Asante, Antonio G. Lentoor

Published in: Substance Abuse Treatment, Prevention, and Policy | Issue 1/2017

Abstract

Background

Against the background that crystal methamphetamine (colloquially known as “tik”) is extensively used by the emerging working class Coloured youth in Cape Town, South Africa, this exploratory qualitative study was conducted to explore the experience of mothers whose children use methamphetamine.

Methods

The researchers conducted one-to-one semi-structured in-depth interviews with sixteen (16) purposively selected caregivers (mothers) whose sons use methamphetamine. Interviews were recorded and simultaneously translated and transcribed. Thematic analysis was used to identify themes related to the experiences of caregivers of youth with methamphetamine problems.

Results

Findings showed that youth misbehaviour provided a context that led to feelings of shame and embarrassment. Participants also experienced personal challenges which included emotional problems, fear and self-blame. Participants also expressed family disruptions and financial drain as adverse experiences as a results of their sons’ misbehaviour.

Conclusion

The study results highlight the psychosocial challenges for caregivers of children who use methamphetamine. These findings underscore the need for effort to be directed at the development of formal support interventions for mothers of youth who are troubled with addiction.

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Title: Use of crystal methamphetamine among male adolescents in Cape Town, South Africa: Caregivers' experiences
Authors: Kwaku Oppong Asante
Antonio G. Lentoor
Publication date: 01-12-2017
Publisher: BioMed Central
Published in: Substance Abuse Treatment, Prevention, and Policy / Issue 1/2017
Electronic ISSN: 1747-597X
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s13011-017-0102-9

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on sleep in brain health

Springer Medicine

Use of crystal methamphetamine among male adolescents in Cape Town, South Africa: Caregivers' experiences

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on sleep in brain health

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusion

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