Prevention of Drug Use in Early Adolescents in Palu City, Indonesia

BACKGROUND: In the last three decades, there has been a significant increase in risky behavior among adolescents in various countries, including Indonesia. They tend to get involved in potentially harmful activities and are at a greater risk of this behavior than other age groups. AIM: This study aims to provide information about preventing drug use in early adolescents in Palu City. METHODS: This qualitative study was carried out in Palu City between July and October 2021 using a phenomenological approach, with 7 informants that were selected using a purposive method. The data were collected through in-depth interviews and the comments recorded were analyzed. Furthermore, ethical considerations were taken into account which includes seeking the consent of the study participants to record the interviews, respecting the confidentiality of information, and giving the right to withdraw. RESULTS: The result showed that risky behavior related to drug abuse among young adolescents is prevented by prioritizing education through related institutions such as the National Narcotics Agency (BNN) and schools. CONCLUSIONS: Based on the result, prevention of risky behavior related to drug abuse is through the supervision of the school and people. Furthermore, the availability of information needs to be addressed by the extension system implemented by the Palu City BNN as a source of information for students in breaking the chain of drug abuse. Social control and supervision from parents are also needed to prevent this behavior among adolescents, especially students.