A grounded theory study of substance use patterns among homeless youth

Background: There are an estimated 1.6 to 2.8 million homeless youth living on the streets of the U.S. each day. These youth are confronted with physical, mental and substance use problems. The purpose of this study was to 1) identify previous experiences influencing homeless youth in their decision to use or not to use substances; 2) examine life situations of homeless youth through narratives and 3) discover a theory which explains the basic social process of substance use in homeless youth.

Method: A qualitative grounded theory methodology (GTM) was used to describe the basic social processes of substance use in the homeless youth population. By using GTM, the entire process was revealed and a theory was generated which explains the social situation from the homeless youth's perspective. Participants were interviewed using IRB approved interview guides and the sessions were tape recorded.

Results: There were 13 participants in this study whose ages ranged from 18 – 21 years. The age range for onset of alcohol use was 10-18 years and illegal drug use 5-17 years. The youth reported the motive/reason for starting illegal drug use was “being cool”; gang initiation; depression; relaxation; and peer pressure. The findings revealed the core category, Using, which consisted of three phases (pre-, active- and post-substance use) and five categories (starting to use, confronting temptation, being on substances, enduring the effects and reclaiming sobriety). The results described the experiences of homeless youth and substance use and ultimately, a theory of substance use among homeless youth.

Conclusion: The results of this study provide a foundation for further studies of substance use in homeless youth and contribute to the knowledge base of nursing, social science and medicine for prevention and treatment of substance use in homeless youth.