NCJ Number
211982
Journal
Substance Use and Misuse Volume: 40 Issue: 11 Dated: 2005 Pages: 1659-1679
Date Published
2005
Length
21 pages
Annotation
This study explored the characteristics of toluene inhalant use among street and other working children in India, including their perceptions and determinants of use.
Abstract
Although inhalant misuse by children and adolescents in most developed and developing nations is widespread, there have been no systematic studies of inhalant misuse by young adolescents in India. In an effort to inform interventions for this population, the current study drew on interview and focus group data from 45 Indian children to explore the characteristics of toluene inhalant use, which is commonly found in high concentrations in correction fluid or “white-out.” Participants were between the ages of 9 to 18 years and were identified for participation through purposive and snowball sampling techniques. Results revealed that inhalant misuse among street and working children in India typically began around age 10 years and was usually introduced by peers. Most participants used other intoxicants as well, including Beedi cigarettes, alcohol, and marijuana. The discussion also focuses on the group dynamics of users, sources of money, accessibility, method and feelings after inhalation, and overdose experiences. The findings suggest the misuse of toluene inhalant use among impoverished children in India is multidimensional, requiring a multidimensional intervention effort. Glossary, references