Drug Abuse Among Teenagers

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ENG-123-Q2246 Drug Abuse among Teenagers According to US government records, close to 50% of high school teenagers have abused drugs within the last few years of their life. The drugs range from illegal drugs such as marijuana, to legal ones that include alcohol and cigarettes. Teenagers, as young as 12 years old, have tried to consume alcohol while 43% of high school seniors have used marijuana (Compton and Volkow 104). Is it a problem of inadequate laws or an irresponsible society? In a morally upright society, teenagers should not have access to any form of drugs given their inability to make informed choices. Developments in the social, political and economic fronts have given teens easy access to drugs. The paper analyses some of the reasons that lead to drug abuse and what the potential effects are, and how the society can help curb the vice. Why do teenagers abuse drugs despite efforts from the law enforcement agencies and the society to curb the vice? REASONS FOR INCREASED DRUG USE The perceived “coolness” of drug users in the American society has led to an increase of drug abuse among teenagers. Teenagers appreciate and idolize celebrities and perceive them as symbols of success and copy their lifestyles. Some of the celebrities are drug users and communicate their “love” for drugs in their work of art. Music is one of the most influential forms of entertainment across the US. Some of the genres in music are known for their rebellious and unruly attitude. Such music openly advocates use of drugs since the artists’ claim of an enhanced personality after using the drugs. Teenagers access and listen to such music on their personal music devices and develop an urge to try the drugs. Peer pressure is also another leading cause of drug abuse among teenagers. Young drug users are viewed as rebellious and hence appeal to
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