Exploring the Lived Experience of Marijuana Using Students: The Case of Unity University Students Gerji Campus Addis Ababa
No Thumbnail Available
Date
2022-06-01
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Addis Ababa University
Abstract
The purpose of this research was to understand the experiences and challenges of students who use marijuana. To that end, the study employed a qualitative research design to comprehend the stories and meanings constructed by 11 current marijuana user and 2 key informants. The study's sample size was determined based on data saturation. Furthermore, the study used a descriptive phenomenological research approach to understand the participants' lived experiences and subjective meanings of their experiences. In-depth interviews and observation were used to collect data. The study employed purposeful sampling, in which participants were approached on purpose based on inclusion criteria. The information gathered from the informants was analyzed using thematic analysis. According to the study's findings, many young adults perceive marijuana as non-harmful in its entirety, which contributes to negative side effects in their emotional and social lives. The three overarching themes discovered were reasons for starting marijuana, perception of marijuana use, and impacts of marijuana use. The findings showed that peer pressure, self-medication, and role models have a significant impact on the decision to begin using marijuana. The findings also showed that students experience both positive and negative social, psychological, and educational impacts. The study's findings could be used to promote positive social change in young adults to improve life outcomes, reduce mental health problems, and prevent overall negative consequences. It also can pave the way for additional research and policy development regarding the impact of marijuana use on the lives of students.
Description
Keywords
Academic Achievements Age, Marijuana, Unity University