The semantic sphere of adolescents who use psychoactive substances

Abstract

The article presents the results of an empirical study aimed at revealing the features of the semantic sphere in juveniles abusing psychoactive substances. Thirty teenagers aged from 14 to 16 were examined. The main group included minors who use psychoactive substances and undergo rehabilitation at the narcological dispensary. A set of methods for studying the semantic sphere wasused. Based on the results obtained, it is concluded that adolescents who use psychoactive substances show a less developed structure of meanings. In the formation of chemical dependence in adolescence, there is a clear deficit in the sense regulation of activity. Prosocial values in the semantic structure do not occupy leading positions. They are characterized by weak self-understanding and reflectivity, which are combined with increased egocentrism. In juveniles with addictive behavior, positively stained assessments and self-evaluation categories are associated with drug use. This pattern can be considered as a risk factor for further narcotization and inadequate focus on overcoming the existing dependence.