@article{10.11648/ajns.20241301.13,
  author = {Benjamin Mugambi and Lumadede Japheth and Charles Mwirigi},
  title = {Influence of Stress on Drug Abuse Among Prison Inmates: A Case of Kangeta Prison, Meru County, Kenya},
  journal = {American Journal of Nursing Science},
  volume = {13},
  number = {1},
  pages = {12-17},
  doi = {10.11648/ajns.20241301.13},
  url = {https://doi.org/10.11648/ajns.20241301.13},
  eprint = {https://article.sciencepublishinggroup.com/pdf/10.11648.ajns.20241301.13},
  abstract = {Prisons aim to rehabilitate inmates, but drug abuse among prisoners undermines this goal. Despite government efforts, drug use persists in Kenyan prisons, particularly in Kangeta Prison. This study addresses the gap in understanding the links between stress and drug abuse among Kangeta inmates. Stress, a reaction to environmental events, can lead individuals to cope through various means, including substance abuse. In prisons, factors like police relationships, new environments, and fear contribute to inmate stress. Mental illnesses are prevalent among inmates, often exacerbated by traumatic life events. Drug abuse serves as an escape from emotional turmoil, peer pressure, and limited mental health care in prisons. Inmates addicted to drugs face intense withdrawal symptoms when incarcerated. Managing inmate stress is crucial for rehabilitation, requiring effective programs and a stress-free environment in prisons. The study, conducted in Kangeta Prison, utilized a mixed-method design with 497 inmates and 26 prison staff. Sampling involved both random and purposive methods. Questionnaires and interviews collected data on stress, prison policies, and drug abuse. A pilot study ensured instrument reliability. Ethical considerations were adhered to, obtaining authorization from the university ethics committee and NACOSTI. Survey results indicated a moderate correlation (0.629) between stress and drug abuse, with stressors such as separation from family and inadequate stress management programs in prison. Stakeholder interviews highlighted the unpleasant prison environment contributing to drug abuse. Inmates often resort to drugs as a coping mechanism. Stress is a significant contributor to drug abuse among Kangeta inmates. Prison conditions, separation from loved ones, and a lack of stress management programs intensify stress levels. Addressing the root causes of drug abuse is crucial for effective rehabilitation. Recommendations to reduce stress among the inmates includes integrating stress mitigation activities, enhancing emotional wellness programs, educating inmates on stress-drug abuse links, and establishing peer support groups. These measures aim to minimize drug abuse through improved mental health care and stress management. Future research should be done explore factors influencing drug abuse in other Kenyan prisons, challenges in correctional department reforms, and the role of inmates in the stress rehabilitation process.
},
 year = {2024}
}

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TY  - JOUR
T1  - Influence of Stress on Drug Abuse Among Prison Inmates: A Case of Kangeta Prison, Meru County, Kenya
AU  - Benjamin Mugambi
AU  - Lumadede Japheth
AU  - Charles Mwirigi
Y1  - 2024/02/01
PY  - 2024
N1  - https://doi.org/10.11648/ajns.20241301.13
DO  - 10.11648/ajns.20241301.13
T2  - American Journal of Nursing Science
JF  - American Journal of Nursing Science
JO  - American Journal of Nursing Science
SP  - 12
EP  - 17
PB  - Science Publishing Group
SN  - 2328-5753
UR  - https://doi.org/10.11648/ajns.20241301.13
AB  - Prisons aim to rehabilitate inmates, but drug abuse among prisoners undermines this goal. Despite government efforts, drug use persists in Kenyan prisons, particularly in Kangeta Prison. This study addresses the gap in understanding the links between stress and drug abuse among Kangeta inmates. Stress, a reaction to environmental events, can lead individuals to cope through various means, including substance abuse. In prisons, factors like police relationships, new environments, and fear contribute to inmate stress. Mental illnesses are prevalent among inmates, often exacerbated by traumatic life events. Drug abuse serves as an escape from emotional turmoil, peer pressure, and limited mental health care in prisons. Inmates addicted to drugs face intense withdrawal symptoms when incarcerated. Managing inmate stress is crucial for rehabilitation, requiring effective programs and a stress-free environment in prisons. The study, conducted in Kangeta Prison, utilized a mixed-method design with 497 inmates and 26 prison staff. Sampling involved both random and purposive methods. Questionnaires and interviews collected data on stress, prison policies, and drug abuse. A pilot study ensured instrument reliability. Ethical considerations were adhered to, obtaining authorization from the university ethics committee and NACOSTI. Survey results indicated a moderate correlation (0.629) between stress and drug abuse, with stressors such as separation from family and inadequate stress management programs in prison. Stakeholder interviews highlighted the unpleasant prison environment contributing to drug abuse. Inmates often resort to drugs as a coping mechanism. Stress is a significant contributor to drug abuse among Kangeta inmates. Prison conditions, separation from loved ones, and a lack of stress management programs intensify stress levels. Addressing the root causes of drug abuse is crucial for effective rehabilitation. Recommendations to reduce stress among the inmates includes integrating stress mitigation activities, enhancing emotional wellness programs, educating inmates on stress-drug abuse links, and establishing peer support groups. These measures aim to minimize drug abuse through improved mental health care and stress management. Future research should be done explore factors influencing drug abuse in other Kenyan prisons, challenges in correctional department reforms, and the role of inmates in the stress rehabilitation process.

VL  - 13
IS  - 1
ER  - 

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