Social Pressure in the Family and School

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Abstract: Most adolescents initially use drugs out of curiosity, or experimentally. Those who continue on to become problematic users need to be identified early so that preventive strategies can be used. At risk for substance misuse are those young people who are particularly vulnerable to adverse social pressures in their families and schools. They have poor coping skills to deal with demands and stresses and often have low self image and absence of a positive identity. Preventive strategies therefore need to be directed at both family and school level. Drug education involves the acquisition of communication and decision making skills, as well as the enhancement of young people's confidence and self esteem, thus leading to the development of a positive identity.