adolecence and drugs
...r other siblings is another risk factor for using drugs. Children whose parents or siblings are alcoholics or drug users are at greater risk of developing a substance use disorder or addiction than those without such a history. Genetic factors play a significant role in determining this ;there is evidence that children born of an alcoholic parent, even when raised by a non-alcoholic foster parent, have much higher rates of alcoholism than those of non-alcoholic origins.(Norwinski pg. 237) Looking at adolescents and addiction through a statistical perspective we can see that in nine-teen ninety-eight, eight graders declined from 23.6 to 21 percentile in drug use. For tenth graders, drug use declined from 38.5% to 35%. This study also found that there was an increase in the number of 8th graders who said to have tried crack or cocaine. (Monti, pg. 67) There are many problems that are affecting drug use along with addiction among the adolescent population. The younger the child is when he begins to use drugs, the more likely he/she is to develop problems associated with drug use, such as acts of violence, unplanned pregnancy, and or unprotected sex. (Monti. Pg. 73) Acts of violence may result to the beginning of criminal activity which intern turns to criminal records or worst; incarceration. Unplanned pregnancy may lead to hard decision making such as keeping the child, abortion, or putting the child up for abortion. Unprotected sex, another secondary problem that may occur when using drugs can make an adolescent because the effect can turn to some type of STD and or more importantly AID/ HIV. HIV and or AIDS may not only come from unprotected sex, it can come from sharing a needle in the use of heroin. Being addicted to this drug can cause one to make unrealistic decision by sharing needles. The more you use the better the chances of contracting this terrible disease. There are many solutions or protective factors in which can decrease drug and or alcohol use among adolescents. You can start off by prevention. Staying involved with that adolescent’s life, even as they seem to get older and seems to need you less and less. (Monti pg. 192) Know there friends and keep up with there recreational activities, schoolwork as well as there social life. Research shows that parents who take an active interest in their child’s life can exert a positive influence and reduce the likelihood that their child will turn to drugs. Being a good listener is a another solution for increasing drug use. Students surveys reveal that when parents listen to their children’s concerns and feelings, kids feel more comfortable talking to them, and are more likely to seek help or stay drug-free. If the child become involved with drugs, he needs your support now more than ever so that he can begin the recovery process. Set a good example to the adolescent. If the you...