The reasons students in high school abuse drug in Mustafakemalpasa district Bursa

The aim of this study was to reveal the extent of substance abuse, especially psychoactive substance abuse in Turkey, and to analyze the causes of drug abuse and its relation to socio-economic status. The study also aimed at helping to specify the necessary precautions, and strategies against substance addiction. A questionnaire form was given to high school students during the study. The data source of this study was drug users. Original questions which had not been used in former studies were asked in the survey, and striking findings were obtained. The study has a different aspect as it focuses on the problem of drug abuse considering the special characteristics of Turkey. Some of the most significant points revealed by this study shows that the rate of drug abuse is gradually increasing, students who are on drugs also smoke cigarettes and consume alcohol, there is a significant correlation between the level of education and drug abuse, and drug abuse is directly proportional to socio-economic status. The findings and recommendations of this study emphasize that the threshold of substance abuse in Turkey has already been crossed, and preventive measures must be taken urgently. We hope research studies like this will help today's children, the future parents to overcome this issue, and encourage researchers to carry out new studies to find ways to prevent individuals who has never used such substances from using them. Key words : Drugs, Drug Abuse, Substance Addiction, Poverty