El consumo de sustancias adictivas y su incidencia en la calidad de vida en los estudiantes de bachillerato de la Unidad Educativa Fe y Alegría #3 del cantón Manta, años 2024-2025.

Abstract

This research project analyzes the impact of addictive substance use on the quality of life of high school students at Unidad Educativa Fe y Alegría #3, in the city of Manta, during the 2024–2025 period. The study was carried out under a quantitative approach through surveys applied to students, with the aim of identifying the main causes of consumption and its impact on academic performance, as well as on physical, emotional, and social health. The results show that consumption has a multifactorial origin, with curiosity, family problems, and stress being the most frequent causes. A total of 40% reported having started between the ages of 15 and 16, a stage considered highly vulnerable. Furthermore, 75% stated that these behaviors negatively affect their quality of life, particularly in the emotional, family, and school spheres, while 65% acknowledged a decline in their academic performance. On the other hand, although 67% reported having received preventive talks at their institution, only 37% mentioned having access to orientation spaces, which reflects the need to strengthen school support resources and highlights the influence of the socio-family environment as a determining factor. In this regard, the research concludes that it is urgent to implement comprehensive prevention programs that involve the family, the educational community, and the social context, fostering a culture of self-care and emotional support. Finally, the study, based on theories of adolescent development, educational prevention, and social work models, proposes strategies aimed at improving students’ quality of life from an integral and participatory approach.