Influence of Drug Avoidance Self-Efficacy on the Perceived Ability to Resist Peer Pressure among Adolescents towards Substance Use

The present study examined the influence of drug avoidance self-efficacy on adolescents’ perceived ability to resist peer pressure in Guwahati. A sample of 100 students from grades 11 and 12 was selected using purposive sampling. Data were collected using the Drug Avoidance Self-Efficacy Scale (DASES) and the Resistance to Peer Influence Scale (RPI), and analysed using descriptive statistics and Pearson’s correlation. Results indicated that adolescents demonstrated a moderate level of drug avoidance self-efficacy and a high level of perceived resistance to peer pressure. However, the relationship between the two variables was positive but very weak (r = 0.10), suggesting minimal association. The findings highlight a gap between perceived resistance and actual selfefficacy, emphasizing the need for interventions that strengthen practical refusal skills and coping strategies