The experiences of social workers working with the youth abusing illegal chemical substances

Abstract

Illegal chemical substance use is not a mere societal issue but a global one, and it is a battle to eliminate it from the government level to service provides on the lower ground. This study was undertaken to explore the experiences of social workers when working with youth who use illegal substances. Its aim was to provide light to the youth, the community at large as well as the employer on what social workers go through to help the youth on personal and professional aspects. The study was conducted with a total of 15 social workers employed by the Department of Social Development (DSD) from both the Vereeniging and Sebokeng office and the South African National Council on Alcohol and Drug Dependency (SANCA), in Vanderbijlpark office. The mentioned organisations are all in the Vaal Triangle area, in Gauteng province. A qualitative research method was undertaken to collect data through semi-structured interviews. Data collected was analysed thematically. The researcher aims to make a positive contribution to the shortage of available literature regarding the chosen topic by providing knowledge to upcoming social workers regarding the realities of serving the youth abusing drugs. Furthermore, to equip the employer with information on what social workers go through in their line of work to fight the use of illegal chemical substances in the country. Ethical considerations were adhered to by the researcher throughout this study. Amongst others put into practice were informed consent, voluntary participation, anonymity, and respect for persons. The findings of the study revealed that participants have low morale for their work due to lack of motivated clients, relapse rate and the fight against substance use being an evolving pandemic. Furthermore, it was found that social workers lacked resources and are demotivated with their profession due to low income paid. Conclusions and recommendations were made about the experiences of social workers regarding what was gathered from the interviews conducted.