Peer pressure, social support, and risky behaviors among school going adolescents in Nakawa Division, Kampala Uganda.

Abstract

In this study the relationship between peer pressure, social support, and risky behaviors among school-going adolescents was investigated. A systematic random sampling strategy was used in the selection of 201 secondary students (50.2% males and 49.8% females) from three secondary schools in Nakawa division Kampala district. The study employed a correlation research design where Pearson correlation coefficient was used to examine the first three study hypothesis, and then Baron and Kenny (1986) regression method used in testing the fourth hypotheses. The results of the study revealed a non-significant relationship between peer pressure, social support, and risky behaviors among school-going adolescents. The findings suggest that peer pressure and social support may not significantly influence the engagement in risky behaviors in this particular population. These results have important implications for understanding the dynamics of peer pressure and social support among adolescents. It suggests that other factors or mechanisms might play a more substantial role in explaining risky behaviors among school-going adolescents. Further research is recommended to explore additional factors that could contribute to the occurrence of risky behaviors in this population. Future studies may also consider utilizing different research designs or methodologies to gain a deeper understanding of the complex relationships between peer pressure, social support, and risky behaviors among adolescents.