Substance use patterns among adolescent girls in Norway

Increased use of illicit substances

Adolescence involves significant physical, psychological and social changes, and for many, these years also involve substance experimentation. While alcohol use among Nordic adolescents has declined in recent years, growing concern surrounds the rising use of illicit substances. According to the 2022 Ungdata survey, cannabis and cocaine use have increased among Norwegian youth, especially in upper secondary schools.

This article, first published in Nordic Studies on Alcohol and Drugs, explores views and experiences among 42 Norwegian adolescent girls, aged 16-19, regarding alcohol and illicit substances. It focuses on how substance use impacts their lives and how their attitudes are shaped. The research utilizes and analyses emerging perspectives through the concept of “mattering”. Q methodology is a research method developed by psychologist William Stephenson. It combines qualitative and quantitative techniques to explore human subjectivity in a systematic manner. With help of factor analysis a researcher is able to identify shared perspectives and viewpoints among the participants (McKeown & Thomas, 2013; Watts & Stenner, 2012).

The girls’ perspectives

The study identifies three perspectives.

The first, “Confident – against illegal substances”, highlights a normalised acceptance of alcohol use alongside strong opposition to illegal substances. These girls reported feeling valued within their families and peer groups, characterized by open and honest communication and emotional closeness with their parents. These relationships seem to foster healthier choices and discourage experimentation with illegal substances.

The second perspective, “Ambivalent – substance use normalized, yet with negative consequences”, reveals a normalisation of both alcohol and illegal substance use within these girls’ social circles. However, it is accompanied by an increased awareness of negative the consequences, such as dependency and trauma. These girls expressed a desire for stronger parental guidance, control, and support earlier in their lives, describing communication at home as poor. As a result, they often seek validation and acceptance from their substance-using peers.

The third perspective, “Outgoing – positive and curious about illegal substances”, reveals a tendency toward experimental and recreational substance use, reflecting an early interest in illegal substances, mostly cannabis. For these girls, substance use is viewed as an integral part of their social lives. Their attitudes differ from those of their parents, who are described as strict and strongly opposed to alcohol use. Substance use is closely linked to their social connections and validation among friends.

The role of relationships

The study reveals that feelings of ‘not mattering’ seem to impact substance use. Adolescent girls who lack validation at home may seek it from friends, increasing the likelihood of exposure to peer groups that experiment with or use illegal substances. In contrast, girls who feel valued often maintain closer relationships with their parents, fostering mutual trust and respect. This also seems to make it easier to seek help if needed. Previous studies have revealed connections between feelings of mattering and the overall well-being of individuals, including adolescents.

The study emphasises the critical role of parents, peer groups, and broader social contexts in shaping adolescent girls’ lives, particularly the role of other significant adults when emotional connections with parents are lacking. Enhancing the well-being of this group can be achieved by fostering supportive and close interpersonal relationships within these contexts. A society where adolescents feel valued and significant is crucial, as it reduces the risk of abusive use of substances and increases overall well-being through healthier life choices.

The importance of mattering to prevent and reduce substance use

This study highlights the importance of professionals understanding the critical role that a sense of “mattering” plays in adolescents’ lives, particularly in shaping their choices related to substance use. It emphasizes the influence of parents, peers, and support services in fostering this sense of value. Strengthening the quality of parental relationships is important.

When professionals engage with youths, these interactions can affect their overall sense of value and significance, potentially encouraging them to seek help. Further, understanding the possible ambivalence among those who regularly use illegal substances and their need to be seen and heard without judgement, is essential. Many are concerned about the consequences related to child welfare services and legal repercussions.

The article is written by

Hanna P. S. Dyrendahl, Ph.D. candidate, Norwegian University of Science and Technology

on the request of PopNAD

References

McKeown, B., & Thomas, D. B. (2013). Q methodology (Vol. 66). Sage publications.

Watts, S., & Stenner, P. (2012). Doing Q methodological research: Theory, method & interpretation. SAGE Publications Ltd.