Khat: Social Habit or Cultural Burden? A Survey and Review

• NCJ Number: 244208
• Journal: Journal of Ethnicity in Substance Abuse Volume: 12 Issue: 2 Dated: April - June 2013 Pages: 140-153
• Author(s): Manaf Khatib; Zakariya Jarrar; Mukhtar Bizrah; Ken Checinski
• Date Published: June 2013
• Length: 14 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This article investigates the psychological and socioeconomic ramifications of Khat on its users and their communities.

Abstract

The aim of this article was to investigate the psychological and socioeconomic ramifications of Khat on its users and their communities. A thorough literature review was undertaken and a questionnaire was distributed among a Somali community in South London. From the 62 individuals surveyed, 79 percent were born in Somalia and 15 percent in the United Kingdom. Participants were asked to answer specific questions about their Khat use, their attitudes toward Khat use, and its perceived effect on their communities. The harms of Khat use are numerous, although they are not well recognized by its users. Khat's legal status means that it is widely available. Measures to reconsider its legality should be considered given the harm on its users. Abstract published by arrangement with Taylor and Francis.