Drug abuse, as I had mentioned in my earlier post, is a maladaptive way to cope with one’s life and its problems. Interaction between certain factors increases the vulnerability of an individual to use drugs as a support to overcome the hurdles in life. There are some other factors which make the younger generation even more prone to abuse drugs. An understanding of these aspects is essential for the parents as well as the service providers so as to deal with the problem of teenage drug abuse more effectively.
Young people are curious and love to experiment with new things. Peer influence is maximum during this age. Peer group acts as the main source of information which may not be correct or appropriate. Their behavior, lifestyle, values, beliefs, personal self concept are more likely to be influenced by them. They might end up with peers who may not necessarily be good role models. They might get exposed to unhealthy behavior patterns through them.
Young people are constantly striving to be accepted by others. They make every effort to be a member of a group. If substance abuse is a culture of the group, the young members adopt it to be accepted by the group. It is also a way of showing that they are matured and are not afraid to be a member of the group.
Gaining personal independence and establishing a personal identity are major characteristics of adolescents and young adults. They seek separation from their family, gain a self determination, choose an occupation and develop their personal values. In an attempt to achieve all these they turn rebellious and suffer from low self esteem. In order to cope with these challenges they might turn to drugs.
Boredom is yet another risk factor since they get bored very easily. Feelings of inadequacy and anxiety regarding low performance in school could also act as precipitating factors.
Tags: drug abuse, drug free home, drug rehab, peer pressure, personal independence, Substance abuse, vulnerability of an individual to use drugs, young drug abuser
