EARLY MARIJUANA USE LEADING TO HARD DRUGS
ADDICTION IN KATHMANDU VALLEY
Mohit Pant
A Dissertation Submitted in
partial fulfillment of the requirement for
the degree of Bachelor of Arts in Social Work
SOWK 307 - Research Methodology
St. Xavier’s College of Social Work
Kathmandu University
Kathmandu, Nepal.
July, 2008
Table of Contents
Abstract
Acknowledgements
Acronyms
List of Tables
List of Figures
3
7
8
9
10
CHAPTER I
INTRODUCTION
Definition of Drug
Types of Drug
Historical Background of Marijuana Use
International Scenario
National Scenario
Theoretical Referents
Peer Group Learning Theory
Sociological Theory
Psycho Analytic Theory
Psychosocial Theory
Gateway Theory
Statement of the Problem
Rationale
Research Questions
Objectives
Operational Definitions
12-25
13
13
14
14
16
18
19
19
19
19
20
20
21
21
22
22
CHAPTER II
METHODOLOGY
Research Design
Variables
Sampling Design
Data Collection
Data Analysis
Significance
De-limitations
Limitation
Experience of the Researcher
23-25
23
23
23
24
24
24
24
25
25
CHAPTER III
DATA ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION
26-69
CHAPTER IV
MAJOR FINDINGS
70-74
CHAPTER V
Conclusion
Recommendations
CONCLUSION
75-78
75
76
REFERENCES
ANNEX I
ANNEX II
ANNEX III
ANNEX IV
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Abstract
It wasn’t long ago that Nepal was the only Hindu kingdom in the world. Though it’s a
secular state in contemporary time, still the majority of the countrymen have their
hearts and souls inclined towards the Hindu religion. Marijuana is more a gift of gods
than a drug in our country. This research carried out among the drug users of
Kathmandu tries to investigate the role played by Marijuana -which has a relatively
easier availability than other drugs in Kathmandu valley-in an individual’s life on
becoming a hard drug user. Hence the paper has gazed its quest in finding the impact
of Marijuana on long-term drug addiction. The cultural and religious inclinations have
created an easier platform for a person in using marijuana. Thus, is easier availability
and cultural acceptance of marijuana in relation to Hindu culture contributes towards
becoming a marijuana user and ultimately, a hard drug user? The paper tries to answer
this question
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Copyright
© Copyright by Mohit Pant
2008
All rights reserved
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Declaration
I hereby declare that this dissertation entitled “Early Marijuana use leading to hard
drugs addiction in Kathmandu Valley” submitted to Bachelor of Social Work
Department, St. Xavier’s College, Kathmandu University, has not been submitted for
candidature for any other degree.
I understand that my dissertation will become a part of the permanent collection of St.
Xavier’s College. My signature below authorizes release of my dissertation to any
reader upon request for scholarly purpose.
…………………………
Mohit Pant
Email: mpant@mail.upeace.org
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To my mother and to the mothers of all my drug using brothers and sisters
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Acknowledgement
I would like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to everyone who has
helped me in conducting the research. First, I would like to thank my research guide,
Mr. Roshan Jung Thapa, whose guidance and support throughout the process of my
research helped me greatly.
The help I received from my friend and motivator, Mr. Kapil Bisht has contributed
immeasurably to my research. Besides being a constant source of help and advice, he
was more importantly a good companion during the onerous task of data collection in
scorching sun in the rehabilitation centers and slums. I thank him for his selfless and
unflagging support throughout the research process.
I am indebted to my friend Mr.Sabin Shrestha for his generosity in helping on
completing the research. I really appreciate his endeavors.
Last but not the least I thank all my respondents and staffs of Richmond Fellowship
Nepal for continuously providing me with suggestions and comments which acted as
a major source inspiration in completing this research.
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Acronyms
AIDS:
Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome
BS:
Brown Sugar
CWIN:
Child Workers in Nepal
HIV:
Human Immune Deficiency Virus
IDU:
Injecting Drug Users
LSD:
Lysergic Acid Diethylamide
SLC:
School Leaving Certificate
WHO:
World Health Organization
YCL:
Young Communist League
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List of Tables
Table No. 1
Age
Table No. 2
Education
Table No. 3
Family Type
Table No. 4
Relation with drug user in family
Table No. 5
Drug used Duration
Table No. 6
First Used Drug
Table No. 7
Reason for starting drug
Table No. 8
Reason for choosing particular drug
Table No. 9
Drug switched after marijuana
Table No. 10
Reason for taking marijuana while taking other drugs
Table No. 11
Reaction of parents on marijuana use
Table No. 12
Reaction of parents on poly drug use
Table No. 13
Views on marijuana before treatment
Table No. 14
Use of drugs contributed by marijuana
Table No. 15
Responsible factors for uncontrolled marijuana
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List of Figures
Figure No. 1
Sex
Figure No. 2
Religion
Figure No. 3
Residential Address
Figure No. 4
Marital status
Figure No. 5
Drug user in the family
Figure No. 6
Drug used
Figure No. 7
Status of drug user
Figure No. 8
First drug used
Figure No. 9
Starting partners
Figure No.10
Marijuana addicted
Figure No. 11
Amount of marijuana consumed
Figure No. 12
Switched to other drugs after marijuana
Figure No. 13
Duration of marijuana use before switching
Figure No. 14
Reason for switching to other drugs after marijuana
Figure No. 15
Pattern of marijuana intake while taking other drugs
Figure No. 16
Amount of marijuana intake while taking other drugs
Figure No. 17
Status of Searching
Figure No. 18
Severity on the nature of reaction from parents
Figure No. 19
Indolent making drug
Figure No. 20
Awareness on marijuana as a drug while taking
Figure No. 21
Easier availability of drug in the market
Figure No. 22
Easily obtainable drug from the market
Figure No. 23
Marijuana as a substituting drug in shortage
Figure No. 24
Drug givers
Figure No. 25
Happening places of drug dealing in Kathmandu
Figure No. 26
Marijuana as a contributing factor
Figure No. 27
Efforts towards marijuana control
Figure No. 28
Use of marijuana due to influence of Hinduism
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CHAPTER I: INTRODUCTION
“It is not what you put in your mouth is evil,
But what comes out from the mouth is evil”
- Coelho Paulo
-----------------------------------------------------
There is nothing right or wrong in celestial nature. It’s within a person’s mind, some
aspects of goodness and some of wrongness-both collectively combined. While the
wrongness makes us deviate from the set norms of the society; the goodness again
instills the realization of our deeds. Drug addiction is a result of wrongness in a man’s
mind. A deviant behavior leads an individual to use drugs just to be a bit abnormal
from the normal world. This abuse of drugs is such dreadful that after a point of time
the individual has to take drugs to be normal. “Nothing is real when it’s not personal”
and so is the addiction of drugs. People who take it know the wrath of taking it. An
alcoholic with swollen nerves consumes alcohol so that the blood flow gains pace or
else s/he will suffer from lethargic symptoms. Every addict realizes at some point, one
way or the other, that s/he should quit drugs but the disease is so harsh that the mind
is forced to seek drugs to live.
An individual tries to run away from physical or emotional pain by taking drugs. S/he
discovers that drugs offer temporary relief, so it becomes comforting. With the
regular intake of the drug the body's ability to produce certain chemicals shrinks.
Since the drug replaces these chemicals body perceives the need of drug to function
and demands the drug through physical cravings. Cravings at times are so severe that
an addict can do almost anything to get more of the drug. His/her moral teachings all
go in vain. Often, the sole purpose of the use of drugs or alcohol is for entertainment.
To become addicted to drugs or alcohol is never a choice. Yet paradoxically, many of
us do. The derailing consequences of ones addiction in the family’s life are often
unintentional. These conditions are the results of the addiction. The addict lies to
everyone, things start missing around the house, and the dishonesty conveyed is
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proportionate to the severity of the addiction (Narconan, 2008)1. Unfortunately an
addict is caught in an inescapable trap.
Definition:
In a layman’s term drugs basically are mood altering substances. Updating its earlier
definition WHO (1982) says, “A drug, in the broadest sense, is any chemical mixture
of entities other than those required for the maintenance of normal health, the
administration of which alters the biological function and possibly structure” (WHO,
1982 as cited in Subba, 1988, p.47). Abel, (1943) as cited in Bhandari, (1988) says,
“Drug abuse is a non therapeutic use of drugs to the point where it affects the health
of an individual or impacts adversely” (p.159). The continued use of drug, natural or
synthetic by a person is called drug addiction. WHO defines, “Drug addiction is the
state of periodic or chronic intoxication produced by the repeated consumption of a
drug, natural or synthetic”.
Types of Drug:
Bhandari (1988) has classified drugs into four categories as,
Stimulant
A kind of drug that stimulates the central nervous system of a person is
categorized as stimulants. Cocaine and amphetamines are the instances
of the stimulants. Hyperactivity, irritability, excitability, talkativeness,
aggressiveness and restlessness are the major symptoms that stimulants
produce. Their chronic abuse may end up with psychological
dependence and mental derangement.
Depressant
These are the substances, which relax the central nervous system of a
person. They include barbiturates, tranquilizers, and are taken either
orally or intravenously or both. The symptoms produced by depressants
in addicts are slurred speech, quick temper; show responses and
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1&See&Narconan.&Retrieved&From:&&http://www.drugsno.com/drugFaddiction/&
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reactions and appearance of drunkenness without an alcoholic breath.
Hallucinogen
These are psychedelic substances that affect the mind causing changes
in perception and consciousness. They are also known as ‘mind
venders’. LSD, Mescaline, psilocybin, Marijuana, Hashish are the
examples. LSD is chemically manufactured whereas others are derived
from plants. The addict manifests symptoms such as talkativeness,
reduced coordination and reflexes, distortion of time and distances,
difficulty in thinking and remembering clearly, loss of illusions etc.
Narcotics
These substances make addicts’ senses dull. Heroin, codeine, morphine,
paregoric are examples of narcotic. The symptoms produced by
narcotics are slurred speech, euphoria, impairment of coordination,
depressed reflexes, flushed face etc. The addict becomes aggressive
when desperate for drug. The addict is prone to commit suicide and is
difficult to cure its addiction.
Depending upon their strengths to intoxicate a user, the drugs can be
further categorized as hard drugs and soft drugs. Hard drugs are strong
in nature and produce physical dependence in addicts. One or two doses
of hard drugs make its user an addict. Morphine and heroin are the
examples. Heroin is also popularly known as brown sugar, smack,
white powder and golden sugar.
Soft drugs are mild in nature in comparison to hard drugs. They
produce only psychological dependence in an addict. Their examples
include Hashish, Marijuana etc.
(Bhandari, 1988, p.3-5)
Historical Background of Marijuana Use:
International Scenario:
Marijuana has served as an agent of attaining euphoria. There are empirical evidences
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of marijuana use since time immemorial. Though Chinese medical compendium
traditionally considered dating from 2737 B.C (Li, 1974); the use of marijuana for
other purpose such as fiber than drugs predates to 10,000 years to the Stone Age. By
500 A.D. the use of marijuana had spread from China to India, North Africa and
Europe. The most famous users of cannabis were the ancient Hindus of India and
Nepal and the ancient world beyond this seemed ignorant about its psychological
effects. The discourse of European legends and herbs has very little information on its
use as a mood altering substance. More so in Indian subcontinent, marijuana bore a
religious value. Shiva, the greatest lord for Hindus was an avid smoker and thus
smoking marijuana in these contexts impersonated Shiva in every being. The herb
was called “ganjika” in Sanskrit (ganja in modern Indic languages). The ancient drug
soma, mentioned in the Vedas as a sacred intoxicating hallucinogen, is sometimes
associated with cannabis. Hence the drug is perceived as holy even today since the
societies are guided by culture than intellect.
In the United States, marijuana was listed in US Pharmacopeia from 1850 until 1942
and was prescribed for various conditions including labor pains, nausea, and
rheumatism. Its use as an intoxicant was also commonplace from the 1850s to the
1930s. A campaign conducted in the 1930s by the U.S. Federal Bureau of Narcotics
(now the Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs) sought to portray marijuana as a
powerful, addicting substance that would lead users into narcotics addiction. It is still
considered a “gateway” drug by some authorities. In the 1950s it was an accessory of
the beat generation; in the 1960s it was used by college students and “hippies” and
became a symbol of rebellion against authority (Gerber, 2004).
A vital issue with marijuana use has continuously arisen. This issue is the stepping
stone theory, i.e., that the use of marijuana leads to the use of other illicit drugs. There
is a statistical certainty that marijuana use (especially heavy use) is associated with
the use of illicit drugs. (Glantz, 1984 as cited in Agrawal , 1990)
The alleged gateway effects of Marijuana have been seen used as a major rationale for
the legal prohibition of that drug in the US and many other countries where it was
legalized earlier. Thus, if the factors underlying the associations between early
Marijuana use and subsequent use of other drugs arise principally from the easier
availability status of Marijuana, with early and easy access to Marijuana being
associated with increased access to other illicit drugs, it would be hypothesized that
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the association between early onset Marijuana use and the use of other illicit drugs
would reduce or disappear in societies such as the Nepal where Marijuana is easily
available as compared to other drugs because of various cultural aspects and religious
acceptance.
Outlining the relationship of Marijuana other illicit drug abuse Lynskey, Vink and
Boomsma (2005) says that early onset use of marijuana increases and availability to
other drugs. This argument that motivated policy changes in the Netherlands that led
to the de facto legalization of marijuana there.
National Scenario:
Between the 1960s and 1970s, Nepal’s charm as a tourist destination heightened not
only because of Himalayas but also from its exotic appeal and the relatively easy
availability of marijuana (Encyclopedia of the nation, Nepal, Country overview). The
Hippie Culture engulfed the Kathmandu valley and youth became addicted to
Marijuana.
Outlining the history of Marijuana use in Nepal, George as cited in Bhandari &
Sarmah, (1988) say,
Marijuana and Hashish abuse started in mid sixties with the influx of
hippies in Nepal. Marijuana and Hashish were cheap and easily available.
These drug became quiet popular among freak tourists. Young Nepalese,
who were in contact with those tourists, were impressed with their
lifestyles and philosophy associated with the encouragement of drug
abuse. Youth by imitating them, started to experience drugs. Thus the
hippie travelling movement over ten years from mid sixties to mid
seventies, led to the genesis of drug abuse in Nepal.
(George as cited in Bhandari & Sarmah, 1988, p.56).
Nepal has been a metonymy for Marijuana. The Kathmandu Post (2004) reported that
Nepal is sometimes referred to as the “Jamaica of the East” when it comes to
Marijuana. Rock stars like Mick Jagger, Jimi Hendrix, Cat Stevens and even the
Beatles are said to have popped up here to smoke weed in the then “Zone of Peace.
The use of Marijuana or “ganja” has been an integral part of Nepalese culture since
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the time immemorial. It has had a special and divine place in our culture since the
origin of greatest lord Shiva. The hermits, Saints, ‘Babas’ and ‘sadhus’, the devotees
of Shiva are seen as the regular users of Marijuana. Marijuana in Nepal is more
cultural than it is in Europe or in America. Especially outside ‘backpacker’ cities
(Kathmandu, Patan, Bhaktapur, and Pokhra) Marijuana is more a religious and caste
device. Marijuana is an illegal drug in Nepal yet the most available one too.
Bhandari (1988) presenting the scenario of Marijuana use in Nepal reports that,
‘The government itself through “Guthi Sansathan” (Trust Organization)
distributes freely few grams of Marijuana to the Sadhus and hermits
residing at Mahadevsthan on the auspicious and sacred occasion of
‘Shivratri’, the night of lord Shiva’s birth.
(Bhandari, 1988, p.28.)
The Kathmandu Post (2008) reported that marijuana plantation is rampant in the
Terai, especially in Hetauda, Bara and Parsa districts. It is regarded as one of the most
profitable cash crops of the region. This also gives basis to the fact that marijuana is
easily available as compared to other drugs.
Though the issue of drug dependence is not a new phenomenon in Nepal, but the
enormity of the problem in contemporary times is quite different and has been gaining
impetus quite rapidly. CWIN, (2001) reports, that the number of drug abusing section
of society in the world is estimated as high as 190 million. The estimated number of
drug addicts in Nepal is approximately 50 thousand. As in other parts of the world,
people aged 15-30 years are the most vulnerable groups for abusing drugs in Nepal.
Every addict has an addictive personality. Many literatures write that a person who
has an addictive personality becomes an addict. It is rather argued in the research that
a person who uses any mood altering substances develops an addictive personality.
It’s not that a person who starts his drugs with pills won’t switch to other drugs. He
will have equal chances of switching, as he would have with Marijuana. But the point
that I want to make is which drug has more chances to be used by a person especially
in our country where religion is so close to our hearts. When we do any deeds in the
name of religion it is accepted by our society.
Every addict while smoking Marijuana likes to call it ‘prasad’. Legally speaking it’s a
drug, only the terminology of ‘prasad’ that addicts have given it has made a room to
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accept by the society. Every addict shows respect to Marijuana which they don’t to
other drugs. This incorporates the general perception of our religious inclination
towards the drug. Especially in our country where people are not that economically
sound and the effort of the state is lackadaisical, addicts are more prone to Marijuana.
Majority of addicts with whom I talked believed that they were once Marijuana user
at certain stage of their addiction life and switched on to other drugs. Marijuana is
often considered as the first phase in drug addiction.
Theoretical Referents
Kandel(1975) says that the Stage or Gateway theory speculates that there is an
invariant sequence in drug use with onset of use falling along a extent with the licit
drugs (tobacco, alcohol) being used before Marijuana, which in turn precedes the use
of other drugs such as cocaine and heroin. Lynskey et al. (2005) reveals that while
such sequence of switching pattern from Marijuana to other drugs has been observed
in numerous studies (Collins, 2002; Ellickson et al., 1992; Graham et al., 1991;
Kandel et al., 1992; Kandel and Yamaguchi, 2002), the interpretation of such findings
remains debatable.
De Wit et al., 2000; Kosterman et al., 2000 as cited in Lynskey et al.,(2005) says that
few researchers have argued that Marijuana plays a contributory role in the
intensification to other drug use and therefore its avoidance would reduce – or even
eliminate – risks of the subsequent use of other drugs.
Lynskey et al., emphasizing on the need for early intervention says, it
is apparent that young people who initiate cannabis use at an early age
are at heightened risks for the use of other drugs and the development
of drug abuse/dependence. Interventions could therefore be usefully
targeted at such individuals in an attempt to decrease the risks that
they will progress to the use of other drugs and or drug
abuse/dependence.
(Lynskey et al., 2005, p.199).
Marijuana is basically categorized as a soft drug. The switching pattern seen among
the users of Kathmandu valley is as such that they initiate their drug addiction
behavior with soft drugs like Marijuana and with time start using hard drugs like Pills,
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Brown sugar, Buprenorphine etc. (Rai A.A, personal communication,13 April 2008).
The injecting pattern in drug using behavior is seen only among hard drug users. So
issue of dreadful diseases like HIV and AIDS, which is usually seen in, IDU’s is also
a major concern.
There are various theories that explain reasons for drug addiction. Though there is no
single consensus about the origin of drug addiction in any type of society, these
theories attempt to explain the origin of drug addiction.
Sander (1988) has categorized the theories on drug addiction as follows,
Peer-group Learning Theory
This theory was propounded by Paschke (1970).It believes that urging curiosity and
the desire of recognition by the peer group members are contributing factors and act
in directions of approach to the drug.
Sociological Theory
Lindesmith (1974), in trying to answer why certain individuals are more susceptible
to addiction than other revealed that the initial drug abuse depends on the availability
of drugs, peer group standards and norms. The process of drug addiction starts when
s/he realizes that physical elements are caused by the absence of the drug in his body.
The addiction is governed by the fact that s/he is aware of the abstinence syndrome
and by the realization that using drugs can stop the occurrence symptoms. The normal
condition for an addict is only attainable by the application of the drug. As soon as the
addict has realized that the drug makes his life bearable, he tries to avoid any
difficulty by using drugs. According to Cloward and Ohlin (1960) the addict evades
competition by drug abuse after he has failed in achievement of legitimate and
illegitimate means.
Psycho Analytic Theory
According to Fort (1954) the injection of a narcotic substance leads to a
pharmacological orgasm which shows obvious advantages compared to complicated
interpersonal orgasm. Khantizian,Mack and Schatzberg (1974) also conceive
disarranged ego organization as casual factor of addiction.
Psychosocial Theory
Ansubel (1961) through coalescing psychological theory and sociological theory
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baptized it as psychosocial theory. It is based on the assumption that internal as well
as external factors are inherent in addiction and each of these factors show addictionproducing characteristics. The external factor includes the availability of drugs and
the environment in which an individual is socialized.
Gateway Theory
Collins, L. M and D. B. Kandel have mentioned about gateway hypothesis that
advocates the idea that use of Marijuana leads to the use of other illicit drugs. Glantz
(1984) termed it as a stepping stone theory, which explains that soft drugs are the
steeping stones in climbing the ladders of drug addiction.
Though these various theories explain on different reasons for drug addiction, this
paper has emphasized on ‘Gateway theory’ on analyzing the impact of Marijuana on
long-term drug addiction. Some academicians argue that use of any drug would lead
to use of other drugs thus making this theory debatable. However, in this research it is
argued that in Nepalese society where Marijuana is easily available owing to religious
acceptance, a youth has a relatively easier access to Marijuana than any other drug, so
is more vulnerable to its use than other drugs. Thus, this theory is taken as a basis for
the research.
Hence, is it Marijuana’s easier accessibility that is making a person hard drug user?
Or is it our religious inclination towards Marijuana that acceptable factor of using it
making a hard drug user? Will the population of hard drug users diminish if the
efforts to control Marijuana are as ardent as effort applied to other hard drugs? The
research has gazed its quest for answers of these questions.
Statement of the Problem
Drug and its addiction have been burning contemporary social issue. Especially in the
impoverished contexts where people are not that economically sound and the effort of
the state is lackadaisical, addicts are more prone to marijuana. Lots of amount of
marijuana is produced in Nepal every year. Moreover our religious rituals are as such
that people are bound to consume it as a means of “Prasad”2. Majority of addicts in
the Kathmandu valley usually start their addiction with Marijuana and switch on to
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2
The closest English translation will be ‘gift of god’ particularly of Shiva vis-à-vis marijuana.
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other hard drugs for various reasons. Marijuana, often considered as the first phase in
drug addiction plays a major role in any drug addict’s life. Many of the researches
that focus on impact of marijuana focus on the physiological impact than its impact
on long term drug addiction. An individual in our society has a relatively high risk of
using Marijuana than other drugs because of its easier availability as compared to
other drugs. Subsequently, our religious norms are as such that it creates an accepting
platform for an individual if s/he is taking Marijuana analogous to the acceptance of
alcohol. Use of Marijuana in different festival is a part of rituals and people often are
guided by the belief that it’s a sin if one doesn’t use it during festivals like ‘Shiv
Ratri’3 or ‘Holi’. These factors contribute towards using Marijuana which then
contributes an individual in becoming a hard drug user.
Rationale
Drug addiction has been identified as one the major social problems of the world
posing threats to socio-economic development of any nation, as youths are the main
target hit by the problem. It has been recognized as a major transmitter of ghastly
diseases like HIV and AIDS. Marijuana on the other hand has a special place in our
Hindu culture. Though it has been classified as a soft drug; we like to call it ‘Prasad’
of lord Shiva. Researches thus far have not been able to answer the reasons behind the
fact that most of the higher drug addicts started with the use of Marijuana. Usually
drug addiction starts with the intake of Marijuana in the younger days and it serially
makes an individual to switch into higher drugs. This study generalizes the impact of
Marijuana to switch into higher drug addiction.
Research Questions:
1. Do people take marijuana because it’s easily available and has religious
importance in Nepalese/Hindu society?
2. To what extent does the religious value of marijuana contributes a person in
becoming hard drug user?
3. What could be the possible social/legal work interventions?
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3
The festival among Hindus to celebrate the birthday of Lord Shiva&
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Objectives
1. To investigate the role of Marijuana contributing towards long-term drug
addiction.
2. To study the leading factors in our society contributing an individual in
becoming a Marijuana user.
Operational Definitions
Drug: Addictive substances that result in physical dependency of used repeatedly.
Drug abuse: Continuous and repetitive use of drugs with hazardous effect on health.
Marijuana: It is a sedative type of drug that causes imbalance in psychosocial
behavior and has a severe impact on the body.
Gate way theory: A theory that substantiates that the use of Marijuana leads to use of
other illicit drugs.
Soft drugs: Drugs like Marijuana and Hashish.
Hard drugs: Drugs like Cocaine Brown sugar Buprenorphine, LSD etc.
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CHAPTER II: METHODOLOGY
The chapter explains the methodology applied in order to accomplish the research. It
elaborates research designing, major variables of the research, sampling designing,
methods used to collect the data, process used in data analysis, scope, limitations and
delimitations of the study. The process that set the guiding parameters of the research
is explained in this chapter.
Research Design
It is an exploratory and quantitative research design where I withdraw information
from the users and explore to make a critical evaluation. The study focuses on the
impact of Marijuana on long-term drug addiction and different factors making an
individual vulnerable to Marijuana that ultimately embarks an individual to become a
hard drug user. In this regard too it is an exploratory research.
Besides, the study has also attempted to make a critical evaluation and describe the
findings related to impact of Marijuana in long term drug addiction. Thus the study
will be both descriptive and exploratory.
Variable
The variables of the study are age, religion, dose taken on per day basis and duration
of switching into other drugs. These are independent variables. On the other hand
impact of Marijuana on long-term drug using behavior is dependent variable of the
study. Since I am looking into behavioral changes occurring due to drugs
manipulation, it is dependent variable.
Sampling Design
The universe of my research were the drug addicts who were current users, users
under treatment or recovered users. It is infinite universe. The size of the sample was
50. The sampling design used was convenient sampling for the research. The samples
were selected from 3 different rehabilitation centers (2 male rehabilitation centers and
1 female rehabilitation centers) and slum areas.
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Data Collection
The study primarily aims for exploring the impact of Marijuana on long term drug
addiction thus for the collection of the primary data, questionnaires with both open
ended and close ended questions were asked. Whenever necessary, the literature
available in the topic was referred for the secondary data. Structured questions were
formulated in order to conduct the research.
Data Analysis
The data collected were analyzed, edited coded and classified. These data were
scrutinized and interpreted in the form of tables and diagrams. Statistical tools such as
mean, median, and mode are used in order to establish relationship between the
variables.
Significance
The issue of drugs and its abuse has been the concern of social work profession from
time immemorial. Especially the youths who have to bear the onus of embarking the
country towards development are more into this disease. On the other hand
Marijuana, which is easily accessible in our part of the world, gives this disease a
platform to spread rapidly. Moreover economic constraints also favor intake of this
substance. Thus a young youth becomes a drug addict, which indicates a pillar of the
country has fallen.
So this research has withdrawn conclusions as such that Marijuana has great deal of
impact on becoming an addict which has severe consequences, especially in our
society were immediate intervention in taking strong legal actions to control use and
selling of Marijuana can diminish the population of hard drug user to a greater extent.
The research conducted has raised some serious questions on our religious inclination
towards Marijuana embarking an individual into the obscurity of drug addiction.
De-Limitation
The research had to be conducted in specific time period so the findings may not be
extensive. Moreover the research was conducted among 50 respondents within
Kathmandu valley so the findings can’t be generalized.
Mohit&Pant&
23&
Limitations
In the process of researching it was difficult to persuade respondents to fill up the
questionnaires especially in slums. No female respondents agreed to share
information in the slum areas. The researcher managed the responses of female drug
users only through rehabilitation center. I also got acquainted with the fact that there
was a great fear among drug user with Y.C.L. At times the respondents also
misunderstood the researcher as the cadre of Y.C.L.
Experience of the Researcher
The research has provided opportunity of immense learning. Right from the days of
selection of topic to data collection, the researcher has faced plethora of challenges.
Walking in scorching sun in the slums or in the alleyways of Kathmandu valley while
collecting data was indeed a tough yet learning experience. Understanding issues of
people, diversified and versatile, have enhanced the general understanding of the
researcher as a social worker. All the addicts that I met had one thing in common, the
pain. This pain was not physical but severe psychological pain. Any person who has
seen an addict at the time of his craving can understand why does he take drugs.
Having experienced this, I became more attached to their problems and could
understand their issues in broader sense. I could feel in the eyes of every addict the
desire to quit drugs. But they were all helpless against the dreadful disease.
This research has and will always have a special place in my heart not only because
it’s my first research but also because of this research I have become a better
individual than yesterday. Every time I pry on this paper, I see the faces of my
respondent desperately wanting to come out from the gloom of addiction and live like
a normal individual. I just feel no addict need ever die because of his addiction.
Mohit&Pant&
24&
CHAPTER III: DATA ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION
This chapter elaborates the findings of the research. The data collected from the field
was analyzed and has resulted significant learnings. Different charts, tables and bar
diagrams have been used in order to justify the findings of the researcher.
Demographic Parameters
Table No. 1: Age
Age
S.N
Age Group (in years)
Frequency
Percentage
1
15-20
11
22%
2
20-25
18
36%
3
25-30
16
32%
4
30-35
1
2%
5
35-40
2
4%
6
4--45
2
4%
50
100%
Total
Table number 1 that the majority of the respondents belong to school or college going
age that generates the fact that especially young people are hit by the problem of drug
and its addiction. The mean age of the respondents is twenty-five years.
Mohit&Pant&
25&
Figure No. 1: Sex
Age
Female&
22%&
Male&
78%&
The figure given above shows the dominance of male drug users in Kathmandu
valley. Only twenty two percent of the respondents were female drug users, which
suggest that in comparison to male drug users female drug users are less exposed.
Mohit&Pant&
26&
Figure No. 2: Religion
Religion
70&
20&
10&
Hindu&
Buddhists&
Christians&
The figure above shows the religion of the respondents. Seventy percent of the
respondents were Hindus where as twenty percent and ten percent were Buddhists and
Christians respectively. Such a high population of Hindus has an impact on the drug
addiction behavior of the person. Especially cultural significance of Marijuana are
backstopped by religious myths. This creates an acceptable and effective platform in a
society for an individual to use marijuana which then leads a person in an abyss of
drug addiction.
Mohit&Pant&
27&
Table No. 2: Education
Education
S.N
Education
Frequency
Percentage
1
Illiterate
4
8%
2
Under SLC
20
40%
3
SLC
11
22%
4
Certificate
11
22%
5
Graduate
4
8%
Total
50
100%
With as low as 62% of total respondents holding education level just upto SLC shows
the dreadful impact of drug addiction in a persons education. A pattern of ‘Dropout’
phenomenon among drug addicts was identified by the resaearch. Most of have them
had to quit their education due to fights with teachers.
Mohit&Pant&
28&
Figure no 3: Residential Address
Residential Address
Slum&
24%&
Urban&
76%&
The study showed that seventy six percent of the respondents hailed from urban areas
whereas twenty six percent were slum dwellers. None of the respondents represented
the rural areas. Since the study was carried out in rehabilitation centers and slum areas
of the Kathmandu valley it is obvious to have respondents belonging to urban area.
However, an underlying fact of more access to drugs in urban areas than rural also
contributes to people of urban areas becoming more prone to drugs than that of rural
areas.
Mohit&Pant&
29&
Figure no. 4: Marital Status
Marital Status
4%&
30%&
Single&
Married&
Separated&
66%&
The above pie chart shows the marital status of the respondents. Sixty six percent of
the respondents said that they were unmarried. Thirty percent, on the other hand were
married and most of them had their spouse as a drug user too. Four percent had to
separate from the family due to the problem of drug addiction.
Mohit&Pant&
30&
Table No. 3: Type of Family
Family Type
S.N
Type
Frequency
Percentage
1
Nuclear
34
68%
2
Joint
16
32%
50
100%
Total
The table above shows the status of the family among drug users. Sixty eight percent
have come from nuclear family while thirty two percent belong to joint families. This
indicates that the city life of urban people is so busy and hectic that they merely have
time to draw attention towards their children. Thus, people from nuclear families are
more hit by drug addiction than that of joint families.
Mohit&Pant&
31&
Figure No. 5: Drug User in Family
Drug User in the family
36%&
Yes&
No&
64%&
Thirty six percent of the total respondents had members within in their families who
were also taking drug, which is quite a significant figure. This makes the factor of
influence by the family members in using drugs a predictable one.
Mohit&Pant&
32&
Table No. 4: Relation with the drug user in the family
Relation with the drug user
S.N
Relation
Frequency
Percentage
1
Brother
8
44.4%
2
Father
5
27.7%
3
Husband
2
11.1%
4
Sister
1
5.5%
5
Father/Mother
1
5.5%
6
Father/Brother
1
5.5%
Total
18
100%
Out of total eighteen respondents who said there were family members in their family
who were also taking drugs had brothers as addicts with roughly 45%. Twenty seven
percent of them had alcoholic father in the house. In females, eleven percent had their
husbands taking drugs. Few had two users in their families as father-mother and
father-brother.
Mohit&Pant&
33&
Figure No. 6: Drug Used
Drug used
Alc/Mar&
6%&
Alc/Mar/Pills&
5%&
Alc/Mar/BS/
Pills/Nor&
22%&
Brown&Sugar&
17%&
Alcohol&
39%&
Marijuana&
11%&
Thirty nine percent of the respondents had the alcoholic members in the family.
Eleven percent had Marijuana users in their family. Seventeen percent had Brown
sugar addicts whereas twenty two percent had poly drug users amongst their families.
This shows acceptability of alcohol in our society contributing to an individual
becoming a drug user. This on the other hand also indicates to a conclusion of having
more chances in using drugs if there are people in the family who are already users.
Mohit&Pant&
34&
Figure No. 7: Status of the drug user
Status
60%&
56%&
50%&
40%&
30%&
28%&
20%&
10%&
16%&
0%&
Current&User&
Under&treatment&
Recovering&&
Figure 7 shows the status of the respondents. Since the studies were carried out in the
rehabilitation centers, fifty six percent of the respondents were under treatment.
Sixteen percent and twenty eight percent were current user and recovering users
respectively.
Mohit&Pant&
35&
Table No.5: Drug Used Duration
Drug Used Duration
S.N
Time (in years)
Frequency
Percentage
1
1-5
24
48%
2
5-10
17
34%
3
10-15
7
14%
4
15-20
2
4%
50
100%
Total
Forty-eight percent of the respondents had used drugs for 1-5 years. Thirty four
percent on the other hand had used for 5-10 years. There were fourteen percent users
who had been addicted to drugs for 10-15 years. Only four percent of the respondents
had users who used drugs for more than 15 years. This indicates that the addiction of
drugs becomes problematic for a person in about five years and a user thinks of
treatment. A user who took drugs to get high now thinks of getting rid of his addiction
problem. In an average the respondents have used drugs for 8 years.
Mohit&Pant&
36&
Table No. 6: First Drug Used Age
First Drug Used Age
S.N
Age (in years)
Frequency
Percentage
1
10-15
21
42%
2
15-20
25
50%
3
20-25
3
6%
4
More that 25
1
2%
Total
50
100%
The above table shows the age of the user while using their first drug. Forty two
percent of the respondents responded that their age was 10 –15 years when they used
their first drug. At the age of 15-20 years about fifty percent of the respondents had
tried their first drug. Six percent of them had used drug when they were in their 20th
25 year. Only two percent started drug after 25 years. This indicates that people
usually start drugs in their teens. The mentality and behavioral or attitude pattern in
the teens also accelerates the influence on the use of drugs at that age.
Mohit&Pant&
37&
Table No. 7: Reason for Starting Drugs:
Reason for Starting Drugs
S.N
Reason
Frequency
Percentage
1
Peer Influence
17
34%
2
Enjoyment
16
32%
3
Experiment
3
6%
4
Family Problems
5
10%
5
1&2
3
6%
6
2&3
4
8%
7
1&4
1
2%
8
1,2 &3
1
2%
50
100%
Total
The data given shows the reasons among respondents to start drugs. Thirty- four
percent of the respondents replied of using drugs due to peer group influence. Thirtytwo percent responded of starting drugs for enjoyment. Six percent of users said that
they started drugs to experiment. Ten percent of the respondents had family problems
in their homes, which contributed them in using drugs. Both peer influence and
enjoyment led to six percent of respondents in using drugs. Eight percent of the users
answered on using drugs for enjoyment and experiment. Two percent each had to use
drugs due to peer influence-family problems and peer influence, enjoyment and
experiment. Peer groups have come as major contributors for an individual in using
drugs.
Mohit&Pant&
38&
Figure No. 8: First Drug Used
First Drug Used
Marijuana&
Pills&
Brownsugar&
4%&
14%&
82%&
Marijuana has come as the mostly used drug to start with. Eighty-two percent of the
respondents started with Marijuana. Fourteen percent and four percent of the
respondents started with pills and brown sugar respectively. Nepal has major portions
of people who are religiously inclined to Hinduism which permits use of Marijuana as
means of festivity. The given data also suggests that people are more vulnerable to
Marijuana intake as it is given in the name of “Prasad” of lord Shiva. This religious
inclination towards Marijuana on the other hand makes it easily available due to
which people usually start with Marijuana in comparison to other drugs.
Mohit&Pant&
39&
Table No. 8: Reason for Choosing the Particular Drug for the First Time
Reason for Choosing the Particular Drug for the First Time
S.N
Reason
Frequency
Percentage
1
Easily Available
25
50%
2
Peer-pressure
6
12%
3
Curiosity
10
20%
4
Religious importance
6
12%
5
1&2
1
2%
6
1&3
2
4%
50
100%
Total
Fifty percent of the respondents said that they chose the particular drug for the first
time because it was easily available. Since most of the respondents had started drugs
with Marijuana, the easier availability of it plays a major role in choosing Marijuana
as the first drug. Twelve percent each believed that peer influence and religious
importance played part in starting the use of the drug with the particular drug. Twenty
percent respondents felt that they were curious about the drug which led to start with
that drug. Two percent started because it was easily available and pressured by their
peer groups. Four percent of them thought easily availability and curiosity was the
reason of choosing the particular drug.
Mohit&Pant&
40&
Figure No. 9: Starting Partners
Starting Partners
100%&
90%&
80%&
Axis%Title%
70%&
60%&
50%&
40%&
30%&
20%&
10%&
0%&
Series&1&
Alone&
Friends&
Relatives&
Friends/
Relatiives&
6%&
88%&
4%&
2%&
The chart shows the percentage of their starting partners. Eighty-eight percent of the
respondents started drugs with their friends. Six percent started alone whereas four
percent started with relatives. Only two percent of the total respondents started drugs
with both friends and relatives. This shows the influence of friend circle in drug using
pattern. Drug user friends play a major role in influencing an individual to start drugs.
Mohit&Pant&
41&
Figure No. 10: Marijuana Used
Addicted to Marijuana
Yes&
No&
14%&
86%&
Eighty-six percent answered that they were Marijuana addicts where as fourteen
percent were not. Since the larger population of the study were addicted to Marijuana
the relevance of the study on understanding the impact of Marijuana in long-term
drug addiction because of its use is more significant and justifiable.
Mohit&Pant&
42&
Figure No. 11: Amount of Marijuana Consumed
Amount Consumed
45%&
21%&
13%&
8%&
5%&
5F10&sticks&
10F15&sticks&
15F20&sticks&
20F30&sticks&
5%&
30F40&sticks& More&than&40&
sticks&
The study revealed that forty-five percent smoked 5-10 sticks of Marijuana each day.
Thirteen percent of the sample consumed 10-15 sticks on per day basis while eight
percent used 15-20 sticks a day. Significantly, twenty-one percent smoked 20-30
sticks Marijuana each day. About eight percent smoked 30-40 sticks a day. Only five
percent of the respondents were heavy Marijuana smokers who smoked more than 40
sticks a day. This shows the prevalence of heavy Marijuana use among the youths
since the major portion of the respondent were youths.
Mohit&Pant&
43&
Figure No. 12: Switched to other drugs after marijuana
Drug switched after marijuana
100%&
Yes&
Figure number 12 shows a rather astonishing fact that hundred percent of the
respondents who smoked Marijuana switched to other drugs. This substantiates the
alleged gateway effect of Marijuana use leading to hard drugs.
Mohit&Pant&
44&
Table No. 9: Drug Switched after Marijuana
Switched Drug
S.N
Drug
Frequency
Percentage
1
Pills
26
52%
2
Buprenorphine
3
6%
3
Brown sugar
12
24%
4
1,2&3
5
10%
5
1&3
4
8%
50
100%
Total
Table number 9 shows the switching pattern among the drug addicts from soft drugs
to higher drugs. Fifty-two percent have switched to Pills while twenty-four percent
have switched to Brown sugar after Marijuana. Six percent of the respondents have
switched to injecting drugs like Buprenorphine. Ten percent have switched to all the
three drugs Pills, Buprenorphine and Brown sugar whereas eight percent went on
consuming Pills and Brown sugar after Marijuana. This shows
Mohit&Pant&
45&
Figure No. 13: Duration of Marijuana use before switching onto other drug
90%&
80%&
70%&
60%&
50%&
40%&
30%&
20%&
10%&
0%&
Series&1&
1F3&years&
86%&
3F5&years&
10%&
5Fmore&years&
4%&
Eighty-six percent of people smoked Marijuana for 1-3 years before switching onto
hard drugs. Ten percent of the respondents switched only after smoking it for 3-5
years. Four percent on the other hand switch to other hard drugs after 5 and more
years. This fact also indicates the development of the addictive personality among
users which makes them curious in trying other after a certain point of time.
Mohit&Pant&
46&
Figure No. 14: Reason for Switching to other drugs after marijuana
Peer&Pressure/&curisoity&&
6%&
Peer&Pressure/&Curiosity/inferiority&
complex&
6%&
Inferiority&Complex&
20%&
Peer&Pressure&
8%&
Curiosity&
24%&
Unsatisfying&Marijuana&Trip/inferiority&
complex&
Curiosity/inferiority&complex&
32%&
4%&
0%&
5%&
10%& 15%& 20%& 25%& 30%& 35%&
Notably thirty-two percent of the respondents shared that unsatisfying Marijuana trip
often referred as “bad trip” being the primary reason for switching into other drugs.
Twenty percent of the respondents felt that the switching onto other drug was because
of the inferiority complex as a Marijuana user among fellow addicts. Twenty-four
percent blamed curiosity as the reason for their switching behavior. Peer pressure got
the credit of eight percent in being the reason of switching from Marijuana to other
hard drugs. Six percent each believed that they had to switch to other drugs due to
both; peer pressure- curiosity and unsatisfying trip-inferiority complex. Four percent
of the respondents thought curiosity and inferiority complex were the reasons for their
switching onto hard drugs.
Mohit&Pant&
47&
Figure No. 15: Pattern of Marijuana intake while taking other drugs
No,&4%&
Yes&(when&
available),&44%&
Yes&(always),&
52%&
Fifty-two percent respondents still smoked Marijuana when they were taking other
drugs while forty-four percent smoked only when it was available. Only four percent
quit Marijuana while taking other drugs. This fact also indicates the effortless
availability of Marijuana among drug users in comparison other illicit drugs.
Mohit&Pant&
48&
Figure No. 16: Amount of Marijuana consumed while taking other drugs
60%&
55%&
50%&
40%&
30%&
23%&
22%&
Same&as&the&previous&
amount&
More&than&the&previous&
amount&
20%&
10%&
0%&
Less&than&the&previous&
amount&
Fifty-five percent of the respondents who were smoking Marijuana at the time of
taking other drugs replied that the amount of Marijuana they took was less than what
they consumed earlier. However twenty-three percent and twenty-two percent
responded saying that the amount that they took was same and more than that of
previous amount respectively. The declining consumption of Marijuana at this stage
also suggests that they have now inclined to other drugs. A person who started with
Marijuana because it was either easily available or culturally accepted has now
become a hard drug and lowered his/her Marijuana consumption.
Mohit&Pant&
49&
Table No. 10: Reason for taking Marijuana while taking other drugs
Reason for taking Marijuana while taking other drugs
S.N
Reason
Frequency
Percentage
1
For High Dose
9
17%
2
Combination was best
11
24%
3
Marijuana was always available
9
19%
4
Habitual
1
2%
5
1,2&3
5
11%
6
1&2
8
17%
7
1&3
3
6%
8
2&3
2
4%
48
100%
Total
Twenty-four percent of the respondents shared that they took Marijuana while taking
other drugs because of the best combination of trip of Marijuana with other drugs.
Seventeen percent on the other hand took it for high dose. Nineteen percent again
were taking Marijuana because it was easily available to them as compared to other
illicit drugs. Seventeen percent further were smoking weed for both high dose and
best combination it provided. Eleven percent of the respondents smoked for all three
reasons-getting high dose, best combination and easier availability.
Mohit&Pant&
50&
Figure No. 17: Status of searching marijuana while taking other drugs
Status of searching
60%&
50%&
40%&
30%&
20%&
10%&
0%&
Always&
On&Ocassion&
Never&
This finding talks about the status of searching Marijuana when they were taking
other drugs. About sixty percent respondents looked for Marijuana only on occasions
like “Holi” “Shiva-Ratri” etc. Twenty-four percent were always searching when they
were taking other drugs. Sixteen percent never “hunted” Marijuana while taking other
drugs. This fact shows the strong influence of Hindu culture among youths which is
rather deviant. The use of drugs under the name of religion has created a kind of
negligence from the concerned authorities.
Mohit&Pant&
51&
Table No.11: Reaction of parents on Marijuana Use
Parents Reaction
S.N
Reason
Frequency
Percentage
1
Scolded
17
34%
2
Alarmed
2
4%
3
Brought to rehabilitation center
2
4%
4
Freed to use cigarettes
17
34%
5
1&2
3
6%
6
1& 4
4
8%
7
2& 4
1
2%
8
1,2&4
4
8%
50
100%
Total
This table discusses about the reaction of parents when they found out their children
were using Marijuana. It is obvious and understandable that a major section (thirtyfour percent) of responses would have to be scolding from parents. However on the
contrary another response from the respondents has drawn special attention of the
researcher and hopefully will draw of the reader’s too. Thirty-four percent said that
their parents freed to use the cigarettes at home once they found them using
Marijuana. Four percent brought their children to rehabilitation centers. This shows
the ignoring pattern from the parents regarding Marijuana. Letting them use the
cigarettes rather than forbidding them on using any kind addictive things at home is a
sign of lackadaisical efforts from the parent’s part as well. Only two percent parents
of the respondents made an effort in alarming their children with the consequences of
Marijuana use. I feel that may be parents don’t realize at this point of their children
entering into the whirlpool of drug addiction. And by the time they realize the
addiction behavior reaches a phase where he/she has to take to live like a normal
individual.
Mohit&Pant&
52&
Table No. 12: Reaction of Parents on Poly Drug Use
Reaction of Parents on Poly Drug Use
S.N
Reaction
Frequency
Percentage
1
Scolded
13
26%
2
Brought to rehabilitation center
26
52%
3
Freed to use cigarettes
5
10%
4
1&2
3
6%
5
1,2&3
3
6%
50
100%
Total
Unlike the last table this one discusses about the reaction pattern from the parents on
hard drug use by the respondents. Twenty- six percent have scolded while fifty-two
percent have brought them to rehabilitation centers which are quite a substantial
figure. Astonishingly ten percent have freed them to use Marijuana as a substitute
drug. Majority of the parents react towards rehabilitating children only when they find
them using hard drugs. Most of the hard drug users are injecting drug users (IDU’s)
which Marijuana addicts are not so the IDU’s are more vulnerable to HIV and AIDS.
Rehabilitation of drug users at earlier stages can prevent a great deal of such diseases
if parents react before it’s too late.
Mohit&Pant&
53&
Figure No. 18: Severity on the nature of the reactions while using Marijuana and poly
drugs
More Severe Reaction by parents on using
Poly&Drugs&
Marijuana&
Both&
8%&
26%&
66%&
Sixty-six percent of the respondents answered that the nature of the reaction from the
parents were more severe when they found them using poly drugs. Twenty-six percent
felt their parents showed stern reaction when they found them using Marijuana. Eight
percent had the view that reactions were severe during both the times. This finding
gives stand to the researcher’s notion of taking Marijuana rather frivolously as
compared to other hard drugs. I believe if parents don’t regard Marijuana as
something trivial and take is as crucial as other hard drugs, the chances of getting out
from this circle of drug addiction at the earliest is maximum.
Mohit&Pant&
54&
Figure no. 19: Drug that makes person indolent in completing tasks
Lazy making drug
90%&
80%&
70%&
60%&
50%&
40%&
30%&
20%&
10%&
0%&
Lazy&making&drug&
Marijuana&
Pills&
Brown&Sugar&
Marijuana/BS&
78%&
8%&
12%&
2%&
Seventy-eight percent of the respondents believed Marijuana as a drug that made
them laziest in completing their tasks. Pills, Brown sugar got the voting of eight
percent and twelve percent respectively. Two percent blamed both Marijuana and
Brown sugar for making them indolent. Hence Marijuana can also be held responsible
for not only being a gateway to drug addiction but also making an individual
unproductive. A youth becoming indolent can cause a significant damage to economic
system of a nation in broader terms.
Mohit&Pant&
55&
Figure No. 20: Awareness on Marijuana as a Drug while taking
Yes,&44%&
No,&56%&
While responding to a question of awareness on Marijuana as a drug at the time of
smoking, fifty-six percent answered that they didn’t think of it as a drug. Forty-four
percent differed though and were aware of Marijuana as a drug while smoking it. It
incorporates the general perception of society on Marijuana as not being a drug, rather
a “prasad” which almighty lord Shiva enjoyed with his beloved “Parwati”
Mohit&Pant&
56&
Figure No. 21: Easier Availability of drugs in the market
Availability of drugs in the market
80%&
70%&
60%&
50%&
40%&
Availability&of&drugs&in&the&
market&
30%&
20%&
10%&
0%&
Easily&Available&
Not&Avvailable&
Drugs are quite easily available and accessible in the markets of Kathmandu valley.
This is what seventy-four percent of the respondent’s deemed. Twenty-six percent
believed that they are not obtainable with that ease. The positive response of majority
of them draws the researcher to a point that easier availability of drugs in the market
signifies the lackadaisical efforts from the state and easily breached legal framework
of the country. Easier availability does play a major role in increasing the population
of drug addicts.
Mohit&Pant&
57&
Table No 13: Views on Marijuana before Treatment
Views on Marijuana
S.N
Views
Frequency
Percentage
1
Not a drug
20
40%
2
Normal Drug
23
46%
3
Serious Drug
7
14%
Total
50
100%
Before coming to treatment forty percent of the respondents had not taken Marijuana
as a drug. Forty-six percent thought it just a normal drug. Only fourteen percent
regarded it as a serious drug. This personifies the views on Marijuana by a common
Nepalese people. They don’t regard it as a drug during earlier stage and at the latter
stage of their so called “addiction career” they blame it as a primary cause of their
being an addict.
Mohit&Pant&
58&
Figure No. 22: Easily Obtainable drug from the market
Easily obtainable
Marijuana/Pills/buprenorphine&
Marijuana/Pills&
Pills&
Marijuana&
0%&
Easily&obtainable&
10%& 20%& 30%& 40%& 50%& 60%& 70%& 80%&
Marijuana&
Pills&
Marijuana/Pills&
68%&
16%&
12%&
Marijuana/Pills/
buprenorphine&
4%&
The study showed that Marijuana was the easiest of all drug to be obtained from the
market. Sixty-eight percent of the respondents favored it as an easiest available drug.
Sixteen percent responded on pills as easily obtainable drug from the market. Twelve
percent answered on both Marijuana and Pills as easily available drug in the market.
Four percent believed that Marijuana/Pills and Buprenorphine had same degree of
availability in the market. Since Marijuana is easily available in the city as compared
to others drugs the risk of young guys to opt for Marijuana is also high.
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Figure No. 23: Marijuana as a substitute drug in shortage
Marijuana&as&a&substituting&drug&
86%&
14%&
Yes&
No&
Eighty-six percent of the respondents shared that they consumed Marijuana as a
substituting drug. Sixteen percent didn’t take Marijuana when there is shortage of
there choice of drug in the market. This compels the researcher to give Marijuana an
analogy of “potato”. “Potato” in the sense that an addict chooses Marijuana to start
drugs and also uses it when there is shortage of his/her choice of drug. Marijuana is a
perfect metaphor for potato as it can be used always and is available.
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Figure No. 24: Drug Givers
Friends/&
Relatives,&2%&
Friends,&24%&
Friends/Dealers,&
26%&
Dealers,&48%&
Twenty-four percent respondents managed their drugs from friends while forty-eight
percent bought the drugs from the dealers. The study also showed that twenty-six
percent brought the drugs from both friends and dealers. Two percent on the other
hand got the drugs from their friends and relatives. This data also shows the rampant
drug dealing business in Kathmandu. People are making hefty bucks with the business
on one hand whereas on the other; wrath of the mothers due to drug addiction is as
insurmountable as the disease of her sons and daughters.
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Figure No. 25: Places of Drug dealing in Kathmandu Valley
Happening places of drug dealing in Kathmandu valley
35%&
30%&
25%&
20%&
15%&
10%&
5%&
0%&
The study also focused on some aspects of drug dealing, which is seen as a rampant
phenomenon inside the valley. There were some significant findings that were
generated through the study. Teku with thirty percent topped the list of being the most
happening place of drug dealing in Kathmandu valley. Patan with twenty-three
percent stood second in the list of happening places. Samakhusi was also seen a
favorite place for eleven percent drug addicts to deal drugs. The researcher was
astonished to see only four percent responses to Thamel as happening place in drug
dealing. Gaushala, a sacred place of lord Pashupatinath also got four percent
responses. Bhaktapur, Baneshwor, Balkhu and Birgunj got seven percent each.
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Figure No. 26: Marijuana as a contributing factor in becoming a hard drug user
Marijuana as a contributing factor
Yes&
No&
34%&
66%&
While developing the questionnaire, some argued on contribution of Marijuana in
becoming a hard drug user. They had to say that the addictive personality of an
individual makes them to use hard drugs not Marijuana. Still I stood by the question
and the finding that I have generated hopefully appreciates my standing. Sixty-six
percent respondents expressed that they wouldn’t have been a hard drug user if it
wasn’t Marijuana. Thirty-four percent though differed in views. The point that I can
withdraw from the mentioned finding is that Marijuana plays a pivotal role in the
journey of a hard drug user’s life. For it be in the name of religion or for it be due
easier availability a person in his teen uses Marijuana. And he/she then develops an
addictive personality because of its use and switches to other drugs. Our nation being
a jubilant celebrator of Hindu traditions and rituals it’s more likely for an individual
to develop an addictive personality through Marijuana than Pills or any other drugs.
Thus Marijuana does contribute to a person in using hard drugs.
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Table No. 14: Use of drugs contributed by marijuana
Drugs taken due to Marijuana Use
S.N
Drugs
Frequency
Percentage
1
Pills/ Brownsugar
11
33.3%
2
Pills
8
24.2%
3
brownsugar
7
21.2%
4
Buprenorphine/Pills/BS
5
15.1%
5
Heroine
1
3%
6
Cocaine
1
3%
33
100%
Total
The above table lists the drugs that had been used by the respondents after Marijuana
use. Thirty three percent of the respondents were seen using Pills and Brown sugar
due to Marijuana use. Twenty-four percent used only Pills after Marijuana while
twenty-one percent used Brown sugar due to the use of Marijuana. Fifteen percent
also used three categories of i.e. Buprenorphine (injecting), Pills, and Brown sugar
after using Marijuana. The study also found on one respondent each using Heroin and
Cocaine after Marijuana use. Marijuana is categorized as a soft drug and all the
respondents who have used above-mentioned different drugs due to Marijuana use are
categorically hard drugs.
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Figure No. 27: Views on efforts applied towards the control of marijuana use
Enough,&20%&
Not&Enough,&80%&
Eighty percent of respondents articulated that the efforts made by the state towards
Marijuana control are not enough. The lackadaisical approaches from security forces
and cultural practices make the availability of Marijuana easier as compared to other
drugs. Twenty percent however uttered that the efforts are enough. However lack of
awareness among youths about the impact of Marijuana in long term drug addiction is
a major intervention to be carried out.
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Table No. 15: Responsible factors for insufficient efforts to control marijuana
Responsible Factors
S.N
Factors
Frequency
Percentage
1
Insufficient legal framework
3
7.5%
2
Lack of awareness among youth
11
27.5%
3
Cultural practices
10
25%
4
1&3
3
7.5%
5
1,2 &3
4
10%
6
2&4
2
5%
7
1,2&4
5
12.5%
8
1,2, 3 &4
2
5%
40
100%
Total
Twenty eight percent respondents believed that lack of awareness among youth was a
major responsible factor hindering the control of Marijuana. In a way it’s very true,
they don’t realize the long term consequences. Religion creates an easier rostrum and
any individual can’t ignore if the use of Marijuana is a means festivity. My
conversations with the respondents also allowed me to observe that they could only
realize in later stages of their drug addiction the consequences of Marijuana in their
long-term drug addiction. Twenty-five percent respondents also held responsible the
cultural practices. In sufficient legal framework has also played a crucial role. A
“Sadhu” can be seen with sacks of weed in ‘Shivaratri’. I wonder how he manages to
bring it to Kathmandu all the way from India. The news of seizing Marijuana is as
rare as a shooting star.
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Figure No.28: Use of Marijuana due to its religious importance in Hinduism
Use of Marijuana due to Religious Influence
No&
Yes&
62%&
38%&
62%&
Sixty-two percent of the respondents used Marijuana because of the influence of
Hindu culture. Thirty-eight percent didn’t use because of the influence of Hindu
culture though. This factor also indicates the dais that a religion can create most of the
times in a deviant way. Using Marijuana in the name of religion is nothing more than
a misnomer. Neither ‘Bhagwatgita’ advocates on using Marijuana nor we are obliged
to use it because lord ‘Shiva’ used. It is just that this factor is an acceptable reason for
using Marijuana by our society because we all being Hindu and devotees of lord
‘Shiva’ religion is close to our souls.
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CHAPTER IV: MAJOR FINDINGS
The chapter presents the findings of the study. Based on the researcher’s findings and
experiences the chapter also cites the recommendations which would hopefully lend a
support to concerned authorities in implementing appropriate social work
intervention. Researcher hopes that lackadaisical endeavors from authorities to
control selling and using of Marijuana will provide zeal within them to take actions in
controlling Marijuana use and hopefully diminish the population of drug users.
The research generated following significant findings which portray the scenario of
marijuana use in Kathmandu and its implications on the drug users.
Demographic Parameters
Sex of the respondents
Seventy-eight percent of respondents were male. Twenty-two percent were only
females. This shows the dominance of male drug users in the valley. Conversely, it
also attempts to make a critical conclusion that as compared to male drug users
female drug users are less exposed. It is due to the fact that social re-integration
process of female is difficult than males. In majority of the cases female drug users
become unwed mothers and get involved into prostitution to manage money for drugs.
This factor is primarily responsible for hindering their social reintegration process.
Religion of the respondents
Seventy percent of the respondents belonged to Hindu religion. It shows the strong
influence of the religion among Marijuana users. Ironically this strong influence of
Hindu culture is playing an undesired role in an individual in becoming a drug user.
Marijuana use in different festivals as a means of ‘Prasad’ is seen common among
‘Kathmanduties’.
Education of the respondents
Forty percent of the respondents have been educated under SLC. Twenty-two percent
each has studied only up to SLC and Certificate level. The number of graduate is only
Eight percent and Eight percent of the respondents are illiterate. Here lies a more stern
aspect of dropouts among drug users. Majorities have seen quitting their education
due to fights with teacher which is a derivative of their addiction. Failure in education
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is also a severe blow to the nation economically and socially.
Drug user in the family of the respondents
Thirty-six percent of the respondents had drug user within their family. Thirty-nine
percent of the respondents (18 out 50 had drug user in family) had their father as an
alcoholic in their family Eleven percent had Marijuana users and Seventeen percent
had Brown sugar user. Twenty- two percent had poly drug users amongst their family
members. . This shows the imitating pattern by people in using drugs if there is an
abuser in family. A person always learns from their elders.
History of addiction
First drug used by the respondents
Eighty-two percent of the respondents answered that Marijuana was the first drug
used by them. Only Fourteen percent had started with Pills while four percent had
begun with Brown sugar. This designates the veracity that people have more chances
of using Marijuana than other drugs because of various reasons. It also shows that
majority of addicts begun drugs with Marijuana.
Reason for choosing the particular drug
Fifty percent respondents revealed the reason for choosing the particular drug for the
first time because it was easily available than other drugs. Most of the respondents
having replied to Marijuana as their first drug, thus the easier availability factor is of
greater concern.
Twelve percent shared that religious acceptance of Marijuana made them choose the
drug for the first time. Twenty percent blamed their curiosity for the drug. Twelve
percent answered as peer-pressure being the cause of choosing the drug.
Starting partners of the respondents
Friends were seen as the starting partners while using drugs with Eighty-eight percent.
This signifies the influencing part played by peer group as suggested by peer group
learning theory (Paschke, 1970).
Respondents addicted to marijuana
Eighty-six percent of the respondents were addicted to Marijuana. Thus impact of
Marijuana generated through this research is substantial and justifiable.
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Switched to other drugs after marijuana
Hundred percent of the respondents have switched to hard drugs like Pills, Brown
sugar, Buprenorphine etc after Marijuana. This finding gives basis to gateway theory
(Collins and Kandel) and steeping stone theory (Glantz, 1984) that states that use of
Marijuana leads to use of other illicit drugs.
Drugs switched after marijuana
Eighty-six percent of the respondents have switched to hard drugs in 1-3 years of
using Marijuana. This shows the development of addictive personality in drug user
which makes them curious to try other drugs.
Reason for switching to other dugs
Thirty-two percent expressed that unsatisfying Marijuana trip (bad trip) compelled
them to switch to other drugs. Notably twenty percent of the users switched to hard
drugs because of feeling of inferiority complex as a Marijuana user among fellow
drug addicts. It was seen that Twenty-four percent switched due to curiosity.
Reaction of parents on marijuana use
Only four of respondent’s parents made efforts in rehabilitating their children once
they found out respondents using Marijuana. Astonishingly thirty-four percent freed
to use cigarettes at home. This shows the ignoring pattern on the parent’s part as well.
It was observed that usually parents don’t take Marijuana use as a serious issue. May
be our religious inclination playing a part in developing this mentality among the
parents.
Reaction of parents on poly drug use
However reactions from the parents on use of hard drug by their children were more
severe and alarming. Fifty-two percent rehabilitated their children where as ten
percent again freed to use them Marijuana this time at home. It can be concluded that
if parents rehabilitate children as Marijuana addicts the population of hard drug users
and risks of diseases like HIV and AIDS among IDU’s can be minimized to greater
extent.
Indolent making drug
The study revealed that Marijuana not only contributes an individual in becoming
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hard drug user but also makes a person unproductive. Seventy-six percent of the
respondents attributed Marijuana as most indolent making drug. A youth becoming
completely unproductive is a critical wallop as far as the future of any nation is
concerned.
Awareness on marijuana as a drug while taking
Fifty-six percent of the respondents replied that they were not aware of Marijuana as a
drug while taking it. This findings hints that the general perception of our society
towards Marijuana. We rather prefer to phrase it ‘prasad’ and our sociological trends
overlooks the long-term impact of Marijuana.
Easier availability of drugs in the market
Seventy-four percent of the respondents revealed that drugs are easily available in
Kathmandu Valley. Greater availability contributes to more access to drugs and rise in
population of drug users.
Easily obtainable drug in the market
The study found out that Marijuana was the easiest obtainable drug in Kathmandu
valley with sixty-eight percent. This finding gives basis to the hypothesis that easier
availability of Marijuana has an immense role to play in a user’s life of addiction. The
mere fact of easy access to Marijuana makes an individual opt for the drug to start his
‘addiction career’.
Marijuana as a substituting drug
Eighty-six percent shared that they used Marijuana as a substituting drug when there
is shortage of their choice of drug in the market. The researcher thus gives Marijuana
an analogy of “potato”. Marijuana is always available and can be taken anytime.
People start their drugs with Marijuana and during shortage it is the drug that gusts off
their sickness hence is a most suitable metaphor for ‘potato’.
Drug givers:
Forty-eight percent of the respondents managed their drugs from dealers. This
signifies the rampant drug dealing business in Kathmandu.
Places of drug dealing in Kathmandu
The research identified Teku, Patan, Samakhusi, Gaushala, Thamel, Bhaktapur,
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Baneshwor and Balkhu as the most happening place of drug dealing in Kathmandu
valley.
Marijuana as a contributing factor in becoming a hard drug user
Significantly sixty-six percent of the respondents blamed Marijuana for their
becoming a hard drug user.
Views on efforts applied towards the control of marijuana use
Eighty percent of the respondents answered that the efforts applied by the state
towards controlling Marijuana is not enough. Though it is illegal drug in Nepal, the
easier availability suggests something else. The respondents also felt that lack of
awareness among youth twenty-seven percent and our cultural practices twenty-five
percent were the major responsible factors for lackadaisical efforts to control
Marijuana.
Use of marijuana due to religious importance in the Hindu culture
Last but not the least sixty-two percent of the respondents were seen using Marijuana
because of its importance in Hindu culture. This factor interprets the general concept
of our society to accept things that are religiously bound irrespective of their
implications.
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CHAPTER V: CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION
This chapter includes observations of the researcher as a conclusion to the research. It
also includes the recommendations of the researcher based on his learning and
experience gained in the process of conducting the research. The chapter provides
recommendations of the researcher for making further efforts to address the problem
stated in this research. To this end, the recommendations are based on the findings of
the research.
Conclusion
There is a famous saying, “Curiosity kills the cat”. This proverb exactly fits on the
issue of drug and its addiction and abuse. Totally unaware about its ill effects of these
drugs most youngsters take these merely out of curiosity. The problem starts with the
habituation and results in the addiction at last embarking an individual towards
serious consequences. Youths are the ones who have to bear the onus of running the
country in future. Thus, if a youth is gone then a pillar of the country is fallen down.
These people have direct relation to the future of the nation.
Especially in our part of the world where drugs are more easily accessible due to open
border with India and also due to lackadaisical legal efforts, the issue of drug
addiction and its abuse has been the major social problem of the society. The laws on
drug addiction have failed to serve their purpose of controlling the production and
sale of drugs like Marijuana. It is easily accessible in different places. This has
jeopardized the public health. The legislative and executive have to come to the fore
and make concrete efforts to address the issue. Without the proper legal framework
the fight against drug addiction becomes an uphill task.
The problem eats an individual like a dreadful virus leading hopes, dreams and wishes
of a family, society and country vanish. A mere curiosity becomes a deadly addiction
in no time. Will it not be better if there curiosity could be satisfied in a more
constructive way?
This is question that every one of us should answer to the people and sections of
society who think that ‘junkies’ are abnormal and sick individuals. This attitude of
ours doesn’t generate any subsequent solution to the problem but accelerates the
rapidness of the problem. We shouldn’t forget that they are human beings with
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problem and accept them as they are. We can indeed help their problem in more
constructive way rather than taunting them with their illness. In this way we can make
a future of theirs and ours since we live in the society and ultimately of the country
because youths are the future of any nation.
If they fall the country falls, the society falls and we fall.
Recommendations
One of the major roles of social worker is of advocator. We as a social worker should
focus on addressing virgin issues that have an adverse effect on sociological patterns.
Our upbringing within a society is as such that we have close bonding and inclination
towards our culture, religion etc. However, at times we overlook the adverse effects
these factors cause in socially disorganizing a person. We ignore the impact of such
practices in the long run just and just because it is a part of our religion. Marijuana is
one of such issues. I believe Lord Shiva would have never used Marijuana so that his
devotees could imitate him. Neither ‘Bhagwadgita’ advocates on using Marijuana nor
do we commit sin if we don’t smoke it in festival. Irony is that in the name of religion
society overlooks the use of Marijuana and ignores the severity of its use in
comparison to other drugs. The severity is rather more alarming of Marijuana than
other drugs. The research itself shows that Marijuana makes a person unproductive
which is a very stern issue.
An addict is seen more prone to using Marijuana than other drugs in Kathmandu
valley. Various factors such as its easier availability, our religious inclinations etc. are
major contributors to afore mentioned facts. Parents on the other hand don’t consider
the use of Marijuana by their children as severe as they are seen in considering to
other drug use. However, an underlying fact is that Marijuana especially in our culture
opens the gateway to drug addiction among individuals.
Taking the results and findings into considerations, I have categorized the
recommendations as follows
Micro Level:
Early Rehabilitation:
The research showed that majority of the respondents were rehabilitated
when they had already started using hard drugs. Most of the families were seen liberal
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in letting them use cigarettes at home rather than rehabilitating them. It signifies the
overlooking pattern by the parents towards Marijuana use. May be they don’t regard
use of Marijuana as a serious problem. Respondents on the other had believed that it
was Marijuana that contributed in their becoming a hard drug user. Thus, if the users
are rehabilitated as soon as their Marijuana addiction becomes problematic, the
population of hard drug user can be reduced to greater extent. This in turn would also
shrink the risk of HIV and AIDS which is mostly seen among hard drug users who
have injecting mode of drug use.
Mezzo Level
Awareness:
In due course of research I also found out that most of the respondents
didn’t treat Marijuana as a drug. Their perception on Marijuana is more like a gift of
god than a drug. The researcher also observed that most of the users could only
understand the severity and impact of Marijuana in their drug addiction only in latter
stages. By this time most of them had either ruined their education or destroyed their
health in many ways. Thus immediate intervention needs to be taken on alerting youth
regarding ill effects of Marijuana. Social worker can play a major role in
accomplishing this task. Marijuana has come as a drug which is not taken seriously by
the people. Its consequences on the other hand are so considerable that, through its
use an individual not only enters into the obscurity of drug addiction but also becomes
barren.
One of the approaches to checking the growth of Drug addiction can be hence
creating awareness among those who take drugs. The individual needs to be warned
against the ill effects of drug. This does not mean despising drugs. The individual
cannot be prohibited from taking drugs but, they should be given the grounds to
decide. Creating awareness to young people and parents can be a crucial tool in fight
against drug addiction.
Macro Level:
Strong Legal Action:
Marijuana has come as the most available drug in Kathmandu Valley.
This bitter veracity is making youths more vulnerable to drug addiction. An individual
has easier access to Marijuana than other drugs in the valley. Our mores contribute an
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individual to consume in festivals and gets used to it. Easier access to the drug then
makes a person addicted to Marijuana and simultaneously to other use. Security
forces should take strong actions to control the availability of Marijuana. It seems that
they are also bound in cultural grounds when it comes to Marijuana. A senior police
official said that there is an informal concession in the drug during festivals (The
Kathmandu Post, Feb 28, 2008). Marijuana, taken as acceptable drugs until over a
decade ago, was classified under illegal drugs in 1988. The law clearly states that
production, circulation and consumption of Marijuana are punishable by law. But the
implementation part of this law is seen lethargic. Thus the endeavors of the state
should focus on implementing the law as stated in constitution. If Marijuana access is
lessened, the problem of drug addiction will be minimized in our society. We should
respect our culture but should also discourage the wrong practices and it’s the duty of
the state to practice what we preach.
Social Reform:
A society plays a pivotal role in upbringing of any individual’s life. We learn from
our social upbringing and practice our social norms. Societies are seen harsh to other
drugs than Marijuana in Kathmandu valley. There was a pattern seen in society,
though this study, that they regard Marijuana as a normal thing. Just like our society
accepts alcohol and cigarettes the pattern of Marijuana is also seen. However, the
point is the Marijuana is also a drug in legal terms just as other drugs are.
Addicts try to create an acceptable means through the name of religion. The greatest
mistake on society’s part is that they ignore the use of Marijuana which they don’t in
case of other drugs. Thus the practices of using Marijuana as a means of festivity
should be strictly condemned and discouraged. Each section should realize that it is a
drug just as any other drug and has serious consequences and impact in an
individual’s life. The need of social reform is this regard is urgency.
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References
Bhandari,B.(1988).Status Of Drug Abuse And Its Prevention: From United Nation To
Nepal.In Bhandari,B.& Sarmah,H.P,Drug abuse in Nepal(p.1-46). Kathmandu:
Srijana Printers
Bhandari,R.(1988).Some Social Causes Of Drug Addiction In Kathmandu. In
Bhandari,B.& Sarmah,H.P,Drug abuse in Nepal(p.159). Kathmandu: Srijana
Printers
Child workers in Nepal. (2001).Alcohol and drug use in Nepal with reference to
children.Kathmandu:Author
Gerber, R. J. (2004). Legalizing marijuana, drug policy reform and prohibition
politics. (1st ed. ed.). Westport: Greenwood Publishing Group.
Glantz(1984).Steeping Stone theory. In Agrawal, A,Narcotic drugs (p.43).New
Delhi: National Book trust
H. Li, "An Archaeological and Historical Account of Cannabis in China," Economic
Botany 28 (1974); 437-8.
Kandel, D. B.,& Faust, R. (1975). Sequences and stages in patterns of adolescent drug
use.General psychology, 32, (p.923–932).
Kleiman, M. (1992). Against excess: Drug policy for results. New York: Basic Book.
Lynskey,M.T, Vink,J.M. & Boomsma,D.I.(2006).Early onset cannabis use and
progression to other drug use in a sample of Dutch twins. Behaviour genetics,
32, (p.195-198) Netherlands: Netherlands Organization for Scientific Research
Marijuana, Befriending the Weed Result in Killing Consequences (2004, Oct 12).The
Kathmandu post.
Sangrula,B.(2008,FEB 28).Mahashivaratri, Marijuana And Half-Naked Godmen.The
Kathmandu post,P.3.
Sander,I.(1988).Theories Of Drug Addiction. In Bhandari,B.& Sarmah,H.P,Drug
abuse in Nepal (p.100-109). Kathmandu: Srijana printers.
Subba, C. (1988). Drug and Drug Addiction in Nepal. In Bhandari,B.&
Sarmah,H.P,Drug abuse in Nepal(p.47). Kathmandu: Srijana Printers
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Annex I: Questionnaire
Please tick (√) your answers
A. DEMOGRAPHIC PARAMETERS:
1. Name (optional):
2. Age:
3. Sex:
a. Male
b. Female
4. Religion:
a. Hindu
b. Muslim
c. Buddhist
d. Christian
e. Others (specify)…………..
5. Education
a. Illiterate
b. Under SLC
c. SLC
d. Certificate
e. Graduate
f. Above
6. Residential Address
a. Urban
b. Urban (Slum)
c. Rural
7. Marital Status
a. Unmarried
b. Married
c. Separated
8. Type of family
a. Nuclear
b. Joint
9. Does anyone living with you use drugs?
a. Yes
b. No
10. If yes who? …………………..
11. Which drug does s/he use?
a. Alcohol
b. Marijuana
c. Pills
d. Buprenorphine
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e. Brown Sugar
f. Others (specify)…………
B. HISTORY OF ADDICTION
12. Status of drug using behavior
a. Current User
b. Under treatment
c. Recovering user
13. For how long have you used drugs?
a. 1-5 years
b. 5- 10 years
c. 10- 15 years
d. more than15 years
14. What was your age (years) when you first used drugs?
a. 10-15years
b. 15-20 years
c. 20-25 years
d. 30 and above
15. Why did you start using drugs?
a. Peer group influence
b. Family Problems
c. For Enjoyment
d. Experiment
e. Others (Specify)………..
16. With which drug did you start?
a. Marijuana
b. Pills
c. Brown Sugar
d. Others (Specify)……………
17. Why did you choose that particular drug?
a. Easily available
b. Peer-Pressure
c. Curiosity
d. Religious Acceptance
18. With whom did you start?
a. Alone
b. Friends
c. Relatives
d. Others (Specify)………….
19. Were you a marijuana addict?
a. Yes
b. No
20. What was the amount that you consumed?
a. 5-10 sticks/day
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b. 10-15 sticks/day
c. 20-25 sticks/day
d. 25-30sticks/day
e. 30-40 sticks/day
f. More than 40 sticks a day
21. Did you switch onto other drugs after marijuana?
a. Yes
b. No
22. To which drug did you switch after marijuana?
a. Brown sugar
b. Pills
c. Buprenorphine
d. Others (Specify)………….
23. For how many years did you use Marijuana before switching onto other
drugs?
a. 1-3 years
b. 3-5 years
c. 5 or more years
24. Why did you switch onto other drugs?
a. Peer Pressure
b. Curiosity
c. Lack of interest in Marijuana induced trip
d. Inferiority complex as a Marijuana user
25. Did you smoke Marijuana when you were taking other drugs? (if No go to
#28)
a. Yes
b. No
26. If yes the amount of Marijuana you consumed?
a. Less than the previous amount
b. Same as previous amount
c. More than the previous amount
27. Why did you take?
a. For high dose
b. Combination was best
c. You couldn’t quit marijuana
d. Others (specify)………….
28. If no why didn’t you use?
a. Current drug was better than Marijuana
b. You realized marijuana consumed more time
c. Marijuana trip wasn’t satisfying (Bad trip)
29. How often did you go to hunt Marijuana when you were taking other drugs?
a. Always
b. On occasions
c. Never
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30. How did your parents react when hey found you were using Marijuana?
a. Scolded
b. Alarmed
c. Brought to rehabilitation center
d. Freed to use cigarettes
31. How did your parents react when hey found you were using hard drugs?
a. Scolded
b. Brought to rehabilitation center
c. Freed to use marijuana
32. The nature of their reactions were more severe when they found out you were
using
a. Marijuana
b. Poly Drugs
c. Both
33. Which of the following drug made you lazy in completing task?
a. Marijuana
b. Brown sugar
c. Pills
d. Buprenorphine
e. Cocaine
34. Where you aware that you were taking drugs when you were using Marijuana?
a. Yes
b. No
35. Are drugs easily available in the market?
a. Yes
b. No
36. Before coming to treatment what were your views on Marijuana?
a. Not a drug
b. Normal drug
c. Serious Drug
37. Which drug is easiest to obtain from the market?
a. Marijuana
b. Brownsugar/Pills
c. Buprenorphine
d. Cocaine
38. Do you consume Marijuana if there is shortage of your choice of drug in the
market?
a. Yes
b. No
39. From whom did you get drugs?
a. Friends
b. Dealers
40. Which place do you get your drugs from?…………………
41. Do you think Marijuana contributed to your becoming a drug addict?
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a. Yes
b. No
42. If No, then which drug?............................
43. Are the efforts made towards control of Marijuana enough?
a. Yes
b. No
44. If No, what are the responsible factors?
a. In sufficient legal framework
b. Cultural practices
c. Lack of awareness among youth
d. Others
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Annex II:
Mahashivaratri, marijuana and half-naked godmen
By Bikash Sangraula,The Kathmandu Post
KATHMANDU, Feb 27: Mahashivaratri, one of the great festivals of the Hindus will
be celebrated from this Saturday, with pomp and grandeur. Apart from regular
preparations, this time the Pashupati Area Development Trust (PADT) is also
providing free accommodation to about 50,000 pilgrims during the three-day festival,
according to Kul Prasad Upadhyaya, a staffer of the trust.
However, the half-naked sadhus from India, who are one of the major attractions of
the festival, are not too concerned about accommodation.
"We are used to sleeping on the streets. We can survive scorching heat, freezing cold,
hurricanes and earthquakes. But we cannot survive without grass," Shiv Giri Baba,
chief of the Annapurna Akhanda Ashram at the Pashupatinath area, told The
Kathmandu Post. While making that dramatic statement, he was inhaling strong
marijuana from meticulously prepared marijuana sticks. Beside him were ample
marijuana sticks to entertain a whole village.
The sadhu came from Kanyakumari expressly to participate in the Mahashivaratri
festivities. "This time, it’s going to be special. We have hundreds of sacks of
marijuana, charas and bhang gifted to us by generous devotees," says he, while a floor
below him, dozens of obedient devotees are preparing narcotic-mixed delicacies for
around a thousand half-naked sadhus whom Giri Baba expects to entertain this
Mahashivaratri. When inquired on who provided him with such a profusion of drugs,
the sadhu had a philosophical answer, "The one who gives lives up there, behind the
clouds. Don’t ask who gives, just take the gift."
In total, the festival is expected to attract more than two hundred thousand pilgrims,
double that in the previous year, thanks to the ceasefire. While PADT has
correspondingly doubled its management budget for the festival and has been seeing
to it that things go on without any hitches, the naked sadhus are all set to upset
unsuspecting pilgrims by exposing their pierced private parts, a practice common
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during the festival.
A highly placed police official of the Police Headquarters told The Kathmandu Post
under conditions of anonymity that marijuana, taken as acceptable drugs until over a
decade ago, was classified under illegal drugs in 1988. "The law clearly states that
production, circulation and consumption of marijuana is punishable by law. However,
during the festival of Mahashivaratri, there is informal concession to the drug," he
said.
Despite prohibition by law, plantation of cannabis, the plant that is processed into
marijuana, is rampant in the Terai, especially in Hetauda, Bara and Parsa districts.
This product is regarded as one of the most profitable cash crops of the region.
Similarly, the public exhibition of private body parts that is regarded as normal
practice during the festival is punishable as public offence in Nepal, according to the
official.
However, Prem Pujari Baba, who came back to Nepal for good after hearing about the
ceasefire, argues that if the worship of the Shiva lingum is sacred, there is no harm in
exposing private parts during the greatest festival of the Lord Shiva.
"There is no shame in this. There are no bars for us. We go where no one hinders our
impulses. That is what naked sadhus are all about," said the Baba munching milksweet containing bhang.
While the sadhus are glad that there is no scarcity of the ‘essentials’ this time as well,
devotees like Narayan Siwakoti of Chabahil is critical about the practice. "Exposing
private body parts and consuming drugs is not a part of our culture. Through
Mahashivaratri, the sadhus and sanyasis of India are trying to spread drug culture in
Nepal. I am surprised how they manage to get hold of sacks of drugs despite
prohibition by the law of Nepal," he argues
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Annex III: Laws and legislation on marijuana
The Government of Nepal has ratified the two UN Conventions related to narcotic
drugs, namely, the Single Convention on Narcotics Drugs, 1961 (as amended by the
1972 Protocol) and the United Nations Convention against Illicit Traffic in Narcotics
Drugs and Psychotropic Substances, 1988. Nepal is still not a party to the 1971
Convention.
Legislation
In Nepal, the Narcotic Drugs Control Act, 2033 (1976) is the legal framework for
drug control issues. Section 3(a) stipulates narcotic drugs as: cannabis, medicinal
cannabis, opium, processed opium, plants and leaves of coca, any substance prepared
with mixing opium, coca extract which include mixtures or salts, any natural or
synthetic narcotic drug or psychotropic substance and their salts and other substance
as may be specified by the Nepal Gazette notification. Any person violating this act
shall be punished by up to life imprisonment and a fine.
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Annex IV: Hashish Trafficking Route
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