An Analysis of Teenage Drug Use in the United States
This paper addresses the problem of drug use among teenagers and examines the various facets of drug prevention and intervention programs. First the paper outlines the problem of drug use among teenagers. Then, the paper discusses the two types of programs. Next, the paper discusses various elements of peer prevention programs. Finally, the paper discusses which drug prevention strategy is most effective.
Teenage drug use is a significant problem in the United States. Research shows that "well over one-half of American high school seniors have tried an illicit drug, and over one-third have used an illicit drug other than marijuana; nearly one in six seniors has tried cocaine." (Milhorn, Jr.,1994,, 3). Another alarming statistic is that the age of 12 or 13 marks the first time a person has used alcohol or an illicit drug (Milhorn, Jr., 1994, 3). Thus, prevention and treatment of drug use is an important part of ensuring healthy development among teenagers.
One of the dangers of drug use is addiction. Beginning in adolescence, drug use "often progresses from nicotine to the use of alcohol and illicit drugs." (Milhorn, Jr.,1994, 6) Addiction is marked by a "loss of control" where the teenager no longer has any power to stop his/her drug use. (Milhorn, Jr.,1994,6) Thus, drug addiction must be treated before it reaches the stage where the teenager loses self-control. This is precisely the reason why drug prevention programs are so important.
Secondary prevention programs, or program that address the problems of adolescents who already use drugs, have a variety of qualities that enhance their effectiveness. Secondary prevention programs should be inclusive and generic, should be ecological in that they recognize the relationship between individuals and their environment, should embrace the quality of honesty in order to impart accurate information about drug use a...