RISK-FACTORS LEADING TO ADOLESCENT SUBSTANCE-ABUSE

The risk factors leading to adolescent substance abuse were examined to provide greater understanding of their influence. The risk factors were divided into four major categories: demographic, social, behavioral, and individual. Each category was broken down into its respective components, among which are ages of susceptibility; gender differences; the influences of family, peers, and environment; the influence of past use of substances; the relationship between substance abuse and other problem behaviors; and the relationships between substance abuse and academic achievement, psychological variables, and student employment. Background information on the prevalence of adolescent substance abuse is also provided.