Reference no: EM13768616

Juvenile Justice

Suffice to say that there are numerous theories as to why a majority of teenagers in America are considered to be among the highest misusers of drugs in the world. There is one particular theory which suggests that peer influence is actually a key cause of teen drug misusing behavior (Baron, 2003). Findings from recent studies concentrated on friend selection as well as projection but suggested that peer influence is a factor that has been greatly exaggerated. This was because it may not really have been as influential as initially believed. It has however been perceived as being rather odd, since it is such a widely held belief and thus there is far more work that needs to be carried out on peer group drug influences so as to make any specific conclusions.

Compared to the above theory, the adventure theory tends to take the inherent curiosity as well as thrill seeking predisposition of the young into the realm of new substances to experiment with, something which can lead to risky actions (Walters, 2014). Such motives combined with the normal rebelling against authority are what some experts concentrate on. The need to indicate one's prowess or take bigger risks than any other individuals can often lead teenagers to penetrate the dangerous world of drugs. This is because they believe to be quite omnipotent, powerful and therefore nothing can actually hurt them.

Several studies concerning the trends of teenage drug use have been completed across the nation. They include the Monitoring and Future Survey, the PRIDE survey, and the National Survey of Drug Use and Heath. Understanding why young people turn to drugs may be the key in bringing this common community problem under control. For this week's class discussion, please complete the following:

• Compare and contrast two differing theories as to why adolescents use drugs and what can be done to stop this behavior.