Short-term effects of drug use are well documented and include biological, intrapersonal/psychological, and interpersonal effects that can influence larger social systems. Most theories on drug use consequences assume that drugs impair physical, psychological, or emotional functioning. Among hypothesized consequences are developmental lag, consolidation of regressive coping, amotivational syndrome, psychosocial dysfunction, subsequent abuse, self-derogation, problem behavior (deviance and nontraditionality), and adult role incompatibility. Studies of the effects of drug use have found effects related to physical health, education, mental health, deviance, family formation, sexual behavior, employment, and social integration. In general, however, the results of such studies are inconclusive or conflicting. A new perspective is suggested that drug use accelerates development rather than delays it, so that users bypass or circumvent the typical maturational sequence of school, work, marriage, and family and become involved in adult roles prematurely without the necessary growth and development to ensure success in these roles. Further research is needed to clarify the consequences of juvenile drug use. Approximately 140 references.