How peers and culture shape cannabis use among rural learners

Adolescent substance abuse is a growing public health concern associated with poor mental health, unsafe sexual behaviour, violence, school dropout, and psychosocial dysfunction. In rural South Africa, peer influence, cultural practices, poverty, and inadequate psychosocial support may increase learners' vulnerability to substance use. However, limited qualitative evidence exists on how these factors influence substance abuse among school learners in rural communities. This study explored peer-group and cultural influences on substance abuse among school learners in a rural community in Limpopo Province, South Africa. A qualitative, exploratory, descriptive, and contextual design was adopted. Purposive sampling was used to recruit 30 learners from selected secondary schools in the DIMAMO area of the Capricorn District, Limpopo Province. Data were collected through semi-structured one-on-one interviews until data saturation was reached. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analysed using thematic analysis guided by Social Learning Theory. Trustworthiness was ensured through credibility, dependability, confirmability, and transferability. Ethical approval and informed consent were obtained prior to data collection. Two major themes emerged: causes of substance abuse and factors maintaining substance use. Peer pressure and social influence contributed to the initiation of alcohol, cannabis, cigarette, and snuff use. Cultural practices and ancestral beliefs further normalised substance use behaviours. Psychological distress associated with poverty, family conflict, and inadequate parental support increased learners' vulnerability. Continued substance use was reinforced by addiction, perceived emotional relief, social tolerance, and easy access to substances. Adolescent substance abuse in rural communities is influenced by interconnected social, cultural, psychological, and environmental factors. Integrated school- and community-based psychosocial interventions are needed to strengthen adolescent mental health and substance abuse prevention strategies.