Gender differences in psychoactive substance use among undergraduates in a developing country.

Background: The use of psychoactive substances constitutes one of the leading social problems confronting students. Some gender differences have been reported in the use of substances. Aim and objectives: To identify the gender differences in substance use among students in Nigeria. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted among 763 students of Imo State University Owerri. A self-administered structured questionnaire was used to obtain the socio-demographic data and information on the reasons, and consequences of substance use. Results: A total of 763 students were studied. More males used substances compared to females (χ2 = 10.6, p˂0.01). More females used psychoactive substances out of curiosity (51.9%), and because a family member used psychoactive substance (55.7%). More males used psychoactive substances to be accepted by friends (χ2 = 7.33, p˂0.01), to make life more enjoyable (χ2 = 18.6, p˂ 0.01), to appear bold and strong (χ2 = 21.7, p <.01), and to cope with the stress (χ2 = 6.52, p˂0.01). Skipping classes regularly (χ2 = 6.98, p˂0.01) and being charged for sexual molestation (χ2 = 5.64, p˂0.02) were more among those who abused substances. Conclusion: There are differences in the rate and reasons for the use of psychoactive substances between the genders. In the design of preventive approaches in students, these should be borne in mind. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]