Factors that contribute to a person's propensity to abuse drugs include genetics, mental disorders or personality; however, environment plays an important role also in contributing to potential drug abuse. Childhood environment, peers at school during adolescence, and other situational factors are involved. In an article about risk factors leading to adolescent substance abuse, published in the journal "Adolescence," Deane S. Beman emphasizes the importance of knowing these factors to gain a greater understanding of the total problem.
Family Environment
Drug abuse by other members of a family plays a fundamental role in determining a higher risk for children later developing a potential for drug abuse. A study documented in "Drug and Alcohol Dependence" indicates an increase in drug abuse among subjects whose parents abused drugs. Through habitually observing parents abuse drugs, children may learn that drug use is normal. In some cases, children take an oppositional stance to drug use; however, the level of acceptability generally increases among children who see drug abuse in the family.
Stress and Trauma
Various experiences can cause such tremendous stress in a person's life that the risk of turning to drugs to self-medicate is increased. The National Institute on Drug Abuse warns that especially in cases where a person has a history of physical or sexual abuse, there is increased risk for drug abuse. Stressors also include witnessing violence or experiencing other kinds of trauma.
Peer Pressure
Peer pressure and drug availability are primary environmental factors contributing to drug abuse and addiction, especially for adolescents, according to Beman. Adolescents exposed to a peer group involved with alcohol and other drugs are more likely to take drugs and drink. Linked to peer environment is the issue of accessibility. The easier it is for a person to obtain drugs, the more likely he will use the drugs. Schools with higher levels of drug availability see a higher level of drug abuse among students. Teens are going through physiological changes, facing feelings of increased instability and issues of self-esteem. Teens often want to do what appears to be "cool" or what they think will enable them to "fit in" and make friends, even if this means taking drugs.
References
- "Adolescence"; Risk factors leading to adolescent substance abuse; DS Beman; 1995
- National Institute on Drug Abuse: Prevention/Genes, Environment, Comorbidity
- "Drug and Alcohol Dependence"; Parental Substance Use Disorder and the Risk of Adolescent Drug Abuse; John Hoffman, Felicia Cerbone; 2002
