RISKS AND PSYCHOACTIVE SUBSTANCE USE AMONG STUDENTS OF A PUBLIC SCHOOL IN CÚCUTA

Objective. To document the risk factors and general aspects perceived regarding the use of psychoactive substances (PAS) among high school students from a public educational institution in San José de Cúcuta during the second semester of 2025. Methodology. A quantitative approach with a cross-sectional design was used to identify risks and perceived behaviors related to PAS consumption. Data were collected anonymously from students and analyzed through frequency and percentage distributions. The population consisted of 513 students from grades 6 to 11 at the E.C.B. Educational Institution, with a final sample of 420 participants selected through convenience sampling. All participants took part voluntarily after obtaining informed consent from their guardians. Results. The analysis described students’ perceptions of risk factors and behaviors associated with PAS consumption and identified the presence of attitudes and practices that could be linked to exposure or vulnerability to substance use. Conclusion. The study provided an understanding of the current situation of PAS consumption within the student population, offering relevant insights for the development of school-based prevention and health promotion strategies.