Social network experiences of Filipino youth drug users prior to drug abuse

This study explored the experiences of Filipino youth drug users on familial and peer social networks. It identified social network elements and relationships between them that led to the engagement of drugs. A grounded theory approach was used to discover the meanings of the experiences of the individuals. Data was gathered from five former youth drug users using a semi-structured narrative interview. Interview transcripts were processed by initially extracting descriptive elements. From these elements, perceptions were formed by the individuals. The incorporation of these elements and perceptions created a model. Findings suggest that most of the participants belonged to a dysfunctional family. Their experiences with the dysfunctional family led them to associate with peer or sibling drug users. Their drug addiction seems to stem from the process of having a dysfunctional family that shifts them towards peer or sibling influence. Our results are parallel to previous studies concerning the connection of familial and peer social groups to inclination of committing delinquent behaviors, particularly drug abuse. The Filipino family structure has evolved and it seems to have a connection with the prevalent drug abuse of Filipino youth