NCJ Number
211205
Date Published
2005
Length
0 pages
Annotation
This video presents a panel discussion of trends in drug abuse among youth, the causes and warning signs of such abuse, and drug treatment strategies.
Abstract
The panel consists of a drug-abuse epidemiologist, a professor of social work research, and two persons involved in drug treatment programming. A discussion of drug trends among youth notes that the use and abuse of particular drugs increase and decrease in cycles with new generations that are unaware of the detrimental effects of specific drugs. Currently, methamphetamine abuse is on the rise among youth because of its seductive effects and accessibility. In the early stages of use, methamphetamine provides the user euphoria and energy before its debilitating adverse effects are experienced with long-term use. Inhalants are also popular among youth, along with the abuse of certain prescription drugs, notably opiate-based "pain killers." Causes of drug abuse include submission to peer pressure, relational difficulties, school maladjustment, and escape from various stressful mental states. Warning signs of drug use are noted by the panel members, including deterioration in school performance, a diminished interest in school extracurricular activities, and new associations with maladjusted peers. Suggestions are offered for parents in preventing their children from using drugs. Panel members suggest that parents address the issue of drugs in their children's early elementary-school years by talking with them about the dangers of various types of drugs their children are likely to hear about at school and from friends. The panel discussion concludes with comments on drug treatment. Multisystemic treatment strategies are mentioned as being a proven strategy, with attention to the various factors that influence drug use.