Research Article
Prison as a Measure to Control Users of Illegal Drugs in Oman
Hamida Al Harthi*
Issue:
Volume 1, Issue 1, March 2026
Pages:
1-10
Received:
23 July 2025
Accepted:
27 January 2026
Published:
25 February 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.sdh.20260101.11
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Abstract: Introduction: Illegal drug use is a rising problem that affects Omani youth. This research aimed to study a group of young Omani men who were imprisoned more than once for illegal drug use, focusing on exploring their lifestyle experiences inside and outside the prison and whether these contributed to their early relapse and re-imprisonment. Methods: 19 Omani males aged 18–35 years imprisoned in Oman Central Prison were recruited using purposive sampling. A focused ethnography was conducted over 8 months to explore drug-related experiences outside prison and during imprisonment. Face-to-face semi-structured interviews with the participants yielded detailed transcripts and field notes. These were thematically analyzed, and the results were compared with the existing literature. Results: The participants’ voices yielded new insights into the lives of young Omani men imprisoned for illegal drug use, including their sufferings and challenges in prison. These included: entry shock, timing and boredom, drug trafficking in prison, as well as physical and psychological health issues. Overall, imprisonment was reported to have negatively impacted the participants’ health, personality, self-concept, emotions, attitudes, behavior, and life expectations. Conclusion: This study concludes that imprisonment is largely ineffective in controlling drug use in Oman. Urgent action is required across multiple sectors to improve the lives and prospects of users of illegal drugs within and outside the prison to minimize factors contributing to early relapse.
Abstract: Introduction: Illegal drug use is a rising problem that affects Omani youth. This research aimed to study a group of young Omani men who were imprisoned more than once for illegal drug use, focusing on exploring their lifestyle experiences inside and outside the prison and whether these contributed to their early relapse and re-imprisonment. Method...
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Review Article
Preventing Childhood Obesity: A Case for Synergistic Action Across Family, School, and Government
Issue:
Volume 1, Issue 1, March 2026
Pages:
11-15
Received:
14 December 2025
Accepted:
25 December 2025
Published:
25 February 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.sdh.20260101.12
Downloads:
Views:
Abstract: Introduction: The global escalation of childhood obesity necessitates a critical review of prevention strategies that have historically focused on single agents of change. This article argues that individual interventions by families, schools, or governments are not sufficient to address the multifaceted drivers of this epidemic. Instead, effective prevention requires an integrated and synergistic approach across all three domains. Discussion: Families establish essential health behaviors, but they are often undermined by structural and environmental inequalities that drive obesity and limit healthy choices. Schools provide a central context for population-level intervention through education and the environment, but their impact is limited without broader policy and community support. Government regulation and fiscal policies are essential to create healthier assumptions, from restricting the marketing of harmful foods to ensuring equitable access to nutritious foods and safe spaces for physical activity. Conclusion: Drawing on international comparisons and evidence from socioecological models, this analysis concludes that only through coordinated action in which policy activates school-based programs and structurally supports families can a sustainable and equitable path to reducing childhood obesity be achieved. In this model, regulation protects children from harmful influences, schools operationalize health promotion daily, and families are supported in making healthier choices for their children. Ultimately, defeating this epidemic requires not just multiple players, but a unified system working in concert.
Abstract: Introduction: The global escalation of childhood obesity necessitates a critical review of prevention strategies that have historically focused on single agents of change. This article argues that individual interventions by families, schools, or governments are not sufficient to address the multifaceted drivers of this epidemic. Instead, effective...
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