ONTOGENETIC AND PSYCHOSOCIAL DETERMINANTS OF ADDICTIVE BEHAVIOR FORMATION AMONG UKRAINIAN YOUTH.

INTRODUCTION

The study examined the ontogenetic psychological mechanisms underlying the development of addictive behavior among young people in modern Ukraine. It aimed to identify how early-life experiences, personality traits, and sociocultural conditions contribute to addictive tendencies and behavioral patterns.

METHODS

A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among pre-undergraduate students of Sumy State University. A structured questionnaire covering demographic characteristics, substance use, and psychosocial variables was administered. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests at a significance level of p=0.005.

RESULTS

The response rate was 86%. Men exhibited significantly higher rates of substance use and addiction than women (p<0.0001). Cannabis was the most frequently consumed substance (13%), followed by psychotropic drugs (3.8%). The average age of first use was 15 years. Early-life experiences, such as family environment and peer influence, were key predictors of addiction risk. A higher proportion of respondents with addictive behavior were occasional rather than constant users (32.9% vs. 20%).

CONCLUSIONS

The findings revealed that male gender and adverse early-life environments were major determinants of addictive behavior. The results emphasized the need for early preventive interventions, psycho-educational programs in schools and universities, and community awareness campaigns focusing on the socio-economic consequences of addiction.