This study aims to examine the relationship between adolescents’ perceived attachment to parents and peers, and their substance use behaviour among high school students in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. To achieve the purpose of the study, a descriptive correlational research design was used. Participants (n = 321) were selected using stratified random sampling technique from two secondary schools. Data were gathered using inventory of Parent and Peer Attachment (IPPA) and Alcohol, Smoking and substance Involvement Screening Test (ASSIST) in May and & June, 2016. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics (p < 0.05; CI: 95%). Results revealed that adolescents have good attachment with their mother and peers, whereas their attachment to their father was relatively low. Besides, the findings indicated that statistically significant difference was observed among adolescents of different age groups on their attachment with their mother, father and peers. In Addition, this study revealed that a great proportion of adolescents abused the commonly used drugs in Ethiopia (i.e. tobacco, alcohol, khat and cannabis). Moreover, a correlation analysis showed that there was a statistically significant negative correlation between adolescent- mother attachment and tobacco smoking. On the other hand, direct relationship between adolescent-father attachment and alcoholism were also uncovered. Finally, Stakeholders should raise community awareness on the importance of adolescent-parent relationship on adolescents’ problematic behaviour.

Keywords: Adolescence, Attachment, Parents, Peers, Substance use