International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research and Growth Evaluation  |  ISSN (Online): 2582-7138  |  Double-Blind Peer Review  |  Open Access  |  CC BY 4.0

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     2026:7/3

International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research and Growth Evaluation

ISSN (Online): 2582-7138 | Open Access

Substance Use and Risky Sexual Behaviors Among School-Going Adolescent Refugees: A Study of Kyaka II and Kyangwali Refugee Settlements in Western Uganda

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Volume: 6 | Issue: 4 | Pages: 499-506

Subject: Educación

Country: Uganda

DOI: https://doi.org/10.54660/IJMRGE.2025.6.4.499-506

License: CC BY 4.0

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Abstract

This study investigated the relationship between peer influence and substance use among school-going adolescent refugees in the Kyaka II and Kyangwali refugee settlements in Western Uganda. The primary objective was to assess the extent to which peer influence is associated with substance use among adolescents in these settlements. A total of 136 students (48 males and 88 females) from Senior One to Senior Four were selected using a simple random sampling method from two secondary schools in the settlements. A correlational research design was employed, and data were collected using structured questionnaires. Pearson’s correlation analysis revealed no statistically significant relationship between peer influence and substance use (r = -0.101, p > 0.05). These findings suggest that peer influence does not directly predict substance use among adolescent refugees in this context. The study concludes by emphasizing the importance of exploring other contextual factors that may influence substance use behaviours and recommends the development of school-based programs aimed at addressing the broader psychosocial needs of refugee adolescents. Further research is needed to identify additional determinants of substance use in this vulnerable population.

How to Cite This Article

Namaganda Zaharah, Mugyenyi Edison, Deborah Ojiambo (2025). Substance Use and Risky Sexual Behaviors Among School-Going Adolescent Refugees: A Study of Kyaka II and Kyangwali Refugee Settlements in Western Uganda . International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research and Growth Evaluation (IJMRGE), 6(4), 499-506. DOI: https://doi.org/10.54660/IJMRGE.2025.6.4.499-506

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Publication Information

Journal: International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research and Growth Evaluation (IJMRGE)

Publisher: Anfo Publication House

ISSN: 2582-7138 (Online)

Frequency: Bimonthly

Language: English

Open Access: Yes - This article is distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License

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