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Substance Abuse: Practice Implications

NCJ Number
132354
Journal
Journal of Adolescent Chemical Dependency Volume: 1 Issue: 3 Dated: (1991) Pages: 43-54
Author(s)
J S Wodarski
Date Published
1991
Length
12 pages
Annotation
The solution to the problem of substance abuse in the United States requires a coordinated and comprehensive effort waged by those societal forces capable of effecting change including families, schools, peers, communities, businesses, and the media. Because the causal nature of substance abuse is multifaceted, each facet will require a unique conceptualization of the causal chain and structuring of appropriate paradigms.
Abstract
One of the groups most affected by substance abuse is adolescents. The schools can be instrumental in educating both adolescents and their parents. For example, parents must be aware of the symptoms of substance abuse in their children. An ideal school-based drug prevention program will offer basic information and will teach youngsters basic coping and decisionmaking skills. Positive role models and stabilizing influences must emanate from the family so that children can learn their values and behaviors. The media can also exert a positive influence on adolescents through programming and music. The community can change standards of acceptance of substance abuse by joining forces and building coalitions; community involvement can also result in significant social change through governmental legislation and policy. Finally, business and industry can foster positive attitudes concerning alcohol and drug use through advertisements and workplace policies. 32 references (Author abstract modified)