Empirical studies have established the debilitating effects of illicit and some licit drugs as well as alcohol. Yet juveniles continue to abuse these substances under peer pressure. Peer pressure has power over juvenile behavior because various institutional influences, including the courts, have undermined parental influences on juveniles' behavior. Parents themselves have also failed to project positive influences and exemplary role models for their children. Juveniles, consequently, have few behavioral standards pressed upon them other than those of their peers. The obsession of juveniles with 'getting high' results from the absence of satisfying goals, values, and behaviors that produce socially constructive results. Steps to counter juvenile drug abuse should include required training in substance abuse prevention for all professionals who work with juveniles, support for parental authority over juveniles, an emphasis on responsible juvenile behavior, and increased exposure of juveniles to life values that will counteract the instinct for immediate gratification.