Drug abuse by teenagers may include using illegal street drugs, prescription medication, over-the-counter cold or sleep medications and inhalants, such as aerosols, glue or gasoline. Some teens who try drugs out of curiosity may be strong enough to stop without problems. Others develop a dependency, move on to dangerous drugs and cause health, family and social problems.
Dysfunctional Family
If parents are not able to demonstrate proper control of their own lives, it can set a bad example for children, according to Dr. Meir Wiker, author of the book "Partners With Hashem: Effective Guidelines for Successful Parenting." Marital difficulties, not spending enough time with children and verbal or physical abuse of a spouse or child may lead teens to seek comfort in negative activities such as substance abuse. Molestation can also be a contributing factor, as can lack of parental supervision and a family history of drug abuse.
Low Self-esteem
Low self-esteem, feelings of social rejection or depression may cause teen drug abuse, the Mayo Clinic points out. Teens often have a desire for social acceptance, but are sometimes plagued by feelings of insecurity or self-doubt. Failure at subjects in school can add to feelings of inadequacy. Depression and feelings of loneliness can set in at this time. Drugs may seem like a way out of problems or a temporary solution---with unknown long-term consequences.
Peer Pressure
Peer pressure plays a major role in many teenage activities. Teens may start to use drugs to try to fit in with a group of people. Having a boyfriend or girlfriend who does drugs may tempt a teen to try them in order to keep the relationship. Experimentation with alcohol or drugs is something many teens consider, according to the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. Teenagers may just want to escape boredom or try to appear "cool" by trying drugs.
Environment
A kid who grows up in a low-income community that is plagued by drugs or crime may have a difficult time avoiding substance abuse, especially if drugs are widely available. The Mayo Clinic says that poverty and drug availability are among the common risk factors for teen drug abuse. The problem is compounded if the teen is in a dysfunctional family. It takes strong efforts from the community to create positive alternatives for these teens.
