While much has been learned about why some young people engage in illicit drug use, almost no research attention has focused on the reasons young people do not engage in drug use. The current study was designed to increase understanding of drug avoidance by exploring how a group of school children aged 10 to 12 years tried to avoid situations in which drugs might be used. The study also probed the factors and circumstances that enhanced or diminished their avoidance efforts. A survey questionnaire was completed by 2,328 10 to 12 year old children attending 47 schools throughout Glasgow and Newcastle; the questionnaire explored the children’s views and experiences of drugs and other aspects of their lives. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 173 of the 230 original participants concerning their experiences with drugs and their experiences with friend and family networks. Results indicated that the main strategy employed for avoiding drug involvement was to stay away from situations in which drugs might be used. While this strategy was reported as mostly successful, there was still risk involved when situations were unable to be avoided, especially for children living in high-risk areas. Participants reported that while it was relatively easy to avoid people who used drugs, it was more difficult when a current friend began using drugs. The findings suggest that while avoidance techniques can be successful, children must also be taught what to do when they do come into contact with drugs since it is nearly impossible to avoid all contact with illicit drug use. Note, references