Despite increased intervention and prevention initiatives designed to reduce adolescent drug use, youths continue to abuse illicit substances. In order to compare the influence of parents versus peers on an adolescents’ decision to use illicit drugs, the authors engaged in a meta-analysis of the relevant research literature. A literature search that focused on key criteria turned up 364 articles or studies that were included in the analysis. Studies were coded based on source of influence, type of substance abused, and age of the substance user. Results of statistical analyses revealed that peers, siblings, and friends exercise more influence than parents on an adolescents’ decision to use illicit substances. However, the relative amount of influence exerted by peers versus parents varies depending upon the age of the adolescent and the type of substance. The authors note that one major limitation in the studies reviewed was the use of self-report data concerning adolescent substance abuse. In conclusion, the authors show that although peers tend to exert the most influence on substance abuse behaviors of adolescents, the research suggests that parents do have some influence on whether their children abuse substances. References