Document from the year 2025 in the subject Theology – Practical Theology, , language: English, abstract: Substance use has become a common phenomenon among the Namibian youth. In that respect, Khomasdal, a suburb of Windhoek, the capital of Namibia, is no exception. Lyndon van Wyk’s research paper assesses the current situation among young people aged 16 to 19 in Khomasdal. It identifies both the causes of substance use and the effects it has on this age group. Furthermore, it demonstrates how church-based pastoral care and counselling can help young people to live transformed lives without alcohol and drugs. The research shows that difficult economic conditions, unfair and systematic inequalities, peer pressure, dysfunctional families and psychological disorders play a significant role in substance use among adolescents. A widespread hedonistic culture and a school system where existentialist and postmodern thinking have replaced the Christian outlook on life are also identified by van Wyk as contributing factors. Furthermore, the study shows that substance use not only leads to dangerous behavioural patterns but also causes personality changes and addiction. Addiction, in turn, leads to criminal activity. Drugs and alcohol also have a direct negative impact on the youth’s cognitive performance and academic achievement.
About the author
Dr Thorsten Prill is a Crosslinks mission partner and minister of the Rhenish Church in Namibia. He has been seconded by his church to serve as Vice-Principal at Edinburgh Bible College. Before coming to Scotland in 2017 he lectured in missiology, practical theology and systematic theology at Namibia Evangelical Theological Seminary and was involved in congregational ministry. He is the author of several books and articles.
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