DRUG ABUSE AMONG JUVENILES

The purpose of this paper is to provide a brief overview of the nature of drug abuse among juveniles, emphasizing the problem of drug abuse among juvenile delinquents in particular. The paper first describes the nature of the problem and then looks at causes. It also offers some solutions to the problem.

Juvenile Delinquency and Drug Abuse: The Nature of the Problem

Lundman (1-12) identifies juvenile delinquency as a behavior, rather than as a psychosocial phenomenon involving various characteristics, or traits of those labeled delinquents. Specifically, he states that juvenile delinquency can be defined as criminal or antisocial behavior engaged in by a minor and punishable by special laws that apply to juveniles.

Lundman (1-12) also points out that it is important to note the distinction between crime and delinquency. In all cases, crime consists of behavior that breaks criminal codes established by society through written law. However, while juvenile delinquents may certainly commit crimes, delinquency itself does not have to consist of a crime; rather, a youth can be said to be delinquent merely for breaking a "cultural law" or norm. Also, Lundman (1-12) points out that delinquency is specific and descriptive of age whereas crime is not.

The use and abuse of substances (alcohol and drugs) is very much associated with juvenile delinquency. In this regard, McClelland, Teplin and Abrahm (1-2) report that:

Of the approximately 2.4 million juvenile ar

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genetically prone to take drugs; however, whether the behavior will occur is influenced by environmental or social factors. Indeed, with the right social and/or environmental factors in place, it is likely that the disposition will never actually be expressed. 2. Neurochemical factors related to morphine-like substances in the brain, and receptors for benzodiazephines affecting the autonomic nervous system. 3. The presence of physical illness or complaint in which medications given to alleviate pain are provided for such a lengthy period (commonly without other supportive assistance in poor areas) that it leads to drug dependence. It should be noted here that this factor is far more likely to affect adults rather than young people, although if a young person has experienced a severe injury and is in a lot of pain for which he is given medication, this likelihood can emerge. Regarding psychological factors and their contribution to drug abuse among young people, (Mohit 5) reports that the research generally supports the notion that some personality types are more prone to drug dependence. Those individuals most likely to take drugs are people with hostile dependence on others, those with a high level of anxiety in interperso

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