Youth And Substance Abuse Essay

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The development of America’s youth relies heavily on what they are exposed to in their lives. Starting from prenatal, before they are born, up until they are eighteen years old and considered an adult in the court system. Children who are born by mothers who are using drugs, may have a harder time dealing with addiction than a child who was born from a mother completely sober. Substance abuse and addiction is a huge problem in today’s youth that can last throughout the life of the individual. It can be hard to find the solution because there are so many variables and addiction can be different for everyone. Drug prevention programs, such as DARE, have been used in the past to help prevent substance abuse and drug addiction in children. There are also programs or services to treat substance abuse and addiction such as rehab facilities, detention, community service, probation, and etc. This research article will define substance abuse and its effects and also discuss the effectiveness of the drug prevention program, DARE. The biggest objective for prevention …show more content…

Youths are more vulnerable while transitioning schools or moving homes, this gives youths new and challenging social and academic situations. Robertson, David, and Rao explain, “Often during this period, children are exposed to abusable substances such as cigarettes and alcohol for the first time. When they enter high school, teens may encounter greater availability of drugs, drug use by older teens, and social activities where drugs are used.” (Par. 2) Normal tendencies like the urge to try new things, the pressure of other peers, wanting to enhance athletic ability or appearance (steroids), wanting to ease their anxiety in social situations, youths wishing to lose weight or get help focusing on school work (Adderall), are all situations that may lead to drug use, which in turn can lead to drug abuse. (Par.

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