Self-Assessment Questions (SAQs) for Study Session 7

Now that you have completed this study session, you can assess how well you have achieved its Learning Outcomes by answering the questions below. Write your answers in your Study Diary and discuss them with your Tutor at the next Study Support Meeting. You can check your answers with the Notes on the Self-Assessment Questions at the end of this Module.

First read Case Study 7.1 and then answer the questions that follow it.

Case Study 7.1  Difficulties with Alemu

Alemu is a 19 year old man living in your community who uses khat and hashish. He also drinks a lot and often fights other community members when he gets drunk. He has multiple sexual partners and is not married. He stopped going to school because his school performance became very poor. Sometimes he steals to pay for the alcohol, khat and hashish. Although he has realised that substance abuse is affecting him adversely, he can’t quit consuming these substances. You are planning to initiate a community conversation programme in your community.

SAQ 7.1

Which of the substances that Alemu uses could badly affect his sexual and reproductive life? Explain your answers.

Answer

Alemu consumes alcohol, khat and the illicit substance hashish; he has already developed high-risk behaviours that could make him vulnerable to HIV infection. Long-term use of alcohol may make him infertile, long-term use of khat may be addictive and reduce his desire for sex. He may not be able to have a satisfactory orgasm when he uses hashish

SAQ 7.2

If Alemu realises that substance abuse is affecting him adversely why doesn’t he stop using alcohol, khat and hashish?

Answer

It seems that Alemu is already addicted to these substances as he knows they are bad for him but he can’t quit. If he tries to quit he will suffer withdrawal symptoms.

SAQ 7.3

What could you do to help Alemu?

Answer

Help him to think critically of his experiences with these substances and how they fail to fulfill his expectations. Engage him in the community conversation sessions; this will enable him to change his behaviour.

Notes on Activity 7.1

Young people may initially try substances because they are:

  • curious
  • pressured by their peers
  • want to become part of the peer group
  • looking for fun and entertainment
  • unaware of the dangers to their health.

They may continue because:

  • they think it will change them into someone different
  • it gives them confidence to face different challenges
  • to get away from their problems
  • to cope with sadness
  • to escape from hopelessness.

Summary of Study Session 7