Diagnostics of Children’s Conceptions in a Low-threshold Facilities for Children and Youth

This study serves as an investigation into a current and marginally addressed problematic of children’s conceptions of illegal drugs. The initial section discusses a theoretical framework of conceptions held by children, in respect to terminology’s outline, factors influencing those conceptions and their potential diagnostics. The empirical section is represented by qualitative research that was conducted in a specific environment of the Low-threshold Facility for Children and Young People. An interview and a concept mapping provided the basis for the analysis of conceptions of illegal drugs in a 12-year-old client. The findings reveal the client’s understanding is inaccurate and reflects many misconceptions. The study proposes an educational strategy that utilises a peer potential in order to eliminate the existence of misconceptions.