Use of Stimulant Substances Among University Students in Tehran: A Qualitative Study

1Associate Professor of Psychiatry, Department for Mental Health and Substance Use Iranian Research Center for HIV/AIDS (IRCHA), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Iran, Imam Khomeini Hospital, Keshavarz Blvd., Tehran, Iran

2Iranian Research Center for HIV/AIDS, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Iran

3Department of Psychiatry, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran

4Center for Environmental Research & School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran

5Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Iran

IJ Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences:Vol. 5, issue 2; 32-42

Published online:Dec 31, 2011

Article type:Research Article

Received:Apr 09, 2011

Accepted:Jun 13, 2011

How to Cite:Afarin Rahimi-MovagharGolara KhastooMahdieh MoinolghorabaeiMasud YunesianAhmad-Reza SadeghiUse of Stimulant Substances Among University Students in Tehran: A Qualitative Study.Iran J Psychiatry Behav Sci.5(2):32-42.

Abstract

Objective: There is evidence to show an increase in use of stimulant substances among university students. This study is a qualitative assessment of the existing situation and the underlying reasons for stimulant use among the students of Tehran University of Medical Sciences in 2006.

Methods: Three qualitative methods have been used: focus group discussions with 7 groups (60 individuals) consisting of male and female students in the dormitories and in the university environment, in-depth interview with 20 drug user students, and interview with 20 key informants including counselors, managers and guards of dormitories, staff of the office for Culture and Welfare Affairs of students and members of students' organizations. Purposeful or opportunistic method was used for sampling.

Results: Ecstasy and methylphenidate (Ritalin) were mentioned as the stimulants used by the students. The main declared reasons for ecstasy use were desire to have fun and excitement, desire to modernity, participation in parties, curiosity and living without family. The high expense of ecstasy pills and the training provided by media were mentioned as the main protective factors. Most respondents believed that use of methylphenidate was more prevalent than ecstasy use. In contrary to the drugs used for fun and enjoyment, methylphenidate is used for increasing learning abilities and academic achievement. Other pointed- out factors were ease of use and being stigma-free.

Conclusion Increasing risk perception via training, social alternatives to risky activities and parental training for continuing care and advice in the college period are recommended.

Declaration of Interest: None.

Citation: Rahimi-Movaghar A, Khastoo G, Moinolghorabaei M, Yunesian M, Sadeghi AR. Use of stimulant substances among university students in Tehran; a qualitative study. Iran J Psychiatry Behav Sci 2011; 5(2): 32-42

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