Chapter One — 1.1 Background to the Study

Over the past decade, the relationship between substance abuse and youth deviant behaviour has become a subject of considerable debate among scholars and industry practitioners alike, particularly within the context of Selected Microfinance Banks in Nigeria where operating conditions differ markedly from more developed markets.

Within the context of Selected Microfinance Banks in Nigeria, this relationship carries particular significance. Organizations in this setting operate under a distinct combination of economic, regulatory, and market conditions that may amplify or dampen the effect of substance abuse on youth deviant behaviour, making a context-specific inquiry both timely and necessary.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Despite a growing body of literature on substance abuse, there remains limited consensus on the precise nature of its relationship with youth deviant behaviour, particularly within Selected Microfinance Banks in Nigeria. Many organizations continue to make decisions about substance abuse without a clear, evidence-based understanding of how those decisions ultimately affect youth deviant behaviour. This gap between practice and empirical understanding is the central problem this study seeks to address.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

1. To examine the effect of Substance Abuse on youth deviant behaviour in Selected Microfinance Banks in Nigeria.
2. To assess the extent to which substance abuse influences youth deviant behaviour within the study area.
3. To identify the challenges associated with substance abuse in relation to youth deviant behaviour.
4. To recommend strategies for optimizing substance abuse in order to improve youth deviant behaviour.

1.4 Research Questions

1. What is the effect of substance abuse on youth deviant behaviour in Selected Microfinance Banks in Nigeria?
2. To what extent does substance abuse influence youth deviant behaviour within the study area?
3. What challenges are associated with substance abuse in relation to youth deviant behaviour?
4. What strategies can be adopted to optimize substance abuse in order to improve youth deviant behaviour?

1.5 Significance of the Study

Beyond its academic contribution to the field of sociology, this study has practical value for management teams within Selected Microfinance Banks in Nigeria seeking to understand how substance abuse translates into measurable outcomes around youth deviant behaviour. It is equally useful to students and future researchers looking for a localized empirical reference on this relationship.

1.6 Scope of the Study

In terms of scope, this MSc study confines itself to Selected Microfinance Banks in Nigeria, focusing specifically on how substance abuse relates to youth deviant behaviour within that setting. Findings are interpreted within these boundaries rather than as universal claims applicable to every organization or market.