Examining Biopsychosocial Factors Influencing Drug Use Among Incarcerated Individuals and the Voluntarily Surrendered: Implications for Drug Treatment Programs in the Philippines

Abstract

Abstract

Aim/Purpose: This study aimed to identify multifaceted factors contributing to drug use and dependence. It sought to delineate characteristics of two distinct groups of drug users: those incarcerated with pending drug-related court cases, and those who have voluntarily surrendered to participate in community-based interventions. By examining the interplay between biological, psychological, and social factors, this research provides a wide-ranging understanding of the underlying mechanisms driving substance use behaviors. Furthermore, the study explored how these biopsychosocial dimensions influence the progression and persistence of substance use disorders. Through rigorous analysis, it aimed to uncover specific patterns and correlations that can inform targeted intervention strategies. Ultimately, this research aspires to enhance the effectiveness of community-based interventions and contribute valuable insights to the broader substance use disorder treatment field.

Introduction/Background: The global crisis of illegal drug use remains a significant threat to public safety and health, affecting millions of adults worldwide. In the Philippines, the government’s "Oplan Tokhang" initiative, launched in 2016, led to more than 1.26 million people surrendering to authorities. Although some research exists on the nature of drug use in the Philippines, there is a significant gap in the literature regarding the characteristics of individuals impacted by the Philippine government's anti-illegal drug campaign. Drug use can be explained in various ways, but health behaviors are complex and influenced by multiple contextual factors, making a single explanation insufficient. This study employed a biopsychosocial framework to analyze a multifactorial profile of drug users. By examining biological, psychological, and social dimensions, the research sought to elucidate the intricate interactions contributing to substance use disorders. Research supports that these interconnected factors contribute to the development of substance use disorders.

Methodology: This study employed a cross-sectional design, involving 564 respondents from Metro Manila, Philippines divided into two groups: 340 voluntary surrenderers and 224 incarcerated plea bargainers. Purposive sampling was employed to select participants, ensuring the inclusion of individuals actively engaged in intervention programs. The study meticulously followed ethical research standards to ensure the accuracy and integrity of the collected data. This approach provided a relevant and focused sample for examining the factors influencing drug use and dependence. Anchored in a biopsychosocial framework, the survey assessed factors related to drug use across three domains: Biological (Substance use disorder, Age of first drug use, Number of drugs used), Psychological (Coping skills, Life skills, Psychological well-being), and Social (Family support, Quality of family life, Perceived community safety). Data analysis was conducted using hierarchical multiple regression and independent-samples t-tests to examine the interaction of research variables and differences between the groups.

Findings: The results revealed that the majority of recovering users were predominantly male, had low educational attainment, and primarily used “shabu” (a methamphetamine). Incarcerated plea bargainers reported higher scores on substance use disorder symptoms and were more likely to be poly-drug users compared to voluntary surrenderers. In contrast, voluntary surrenderers exhibited greater life skills and psychological well-being than incarcerated individuals. Life skills emerged as a significant predictor of substance use disorder symptoms for both groups, suggesting that the inability to cope with life demands increases the risk of substance use. Additionally, perceived community safety was a significant predictor of substance use disorder symptoms among voluntary surrenderers, underscoring the importance of supply reduction efforts. These results highlight the necessity to differentiate drug treatment approaches based on the profile of users.

Contribution/Impact on Society: The findings of this study underscored the critical importance of adopting a biopsychosocial approach to address the complex issue of drug use. By considering the interplay between biological, psychological, and social factors, a more comprehensive understanding of drug use and dependence can be achieved. These results may be used to advocate for the design and implementation of comprehensive community intervention programs tailored to facilitate the recovery of drug users, thereby promoting public health and safety.

Recommendations: To further elucidate the relationships among the various factors influencing drug use and dependence, advanced multivariate analytical techniques should be employed. These techniques would enable a more nuanced examination of the interactions between different variables. Additionally, the proposed model should be tested using more rigorous research designs, such as randomized controlled trials, to establish causality and enhance the robustness of the findings.

Research Limitations: The study was limited by its reliance on self-report scales, which may be subject to social desirability bias. Furthermore, the differing circumstances under which each group of respondents completed the scales could have influenced their responses. These limitations should be considered when interpreting the results and designing future research studies.

Future Research: Given that a significant portion of the participants were unemployed, further research should be conducted to examine the relationship between unemployment and drug use. Additionally, it is crucial to investigate the biopsychosocial traits of populations residing in more rural areas compared to individuals in Metro Manila, as these groups may exhibit distinct characteristics. Moreover, additional variables within the biopsychosocial framework that were not addressed in the current research need to be examined. For instance, factors such as childhood aggression and life stress warrant further investigation, as they may significantly contribute to the development of substance use disorders. Understanding the interplay of these additional variables may provide a more comprehensive understanding of drug use and inform more effective intervention programs.