Few differences are noted among different geographic locations across the state. For purposes of the survey, schools were divided into three location types. Locale 1 included urban areas and selected districts in close proximity to urban areas with socioeconomic characteristics similar to urban areas. Locale 2 included suburban areas within commuting distance to large metropolitan areas, where many of the people are employed, and cities or towns with populations over 15,000. And, Locale 3 included rural areas and towns with populations under 15,000.
Female abuse is below that of males across all drugs.
Also, 12th grade gifted students were found to report higher abuse rates than their peers for all drugs except alcohol and tobacco. Students most often reported that experimentation was the reason for using marijuana. Parental disapproval and worry about psychological or physical damage as well as becoming addicted were most often cited as reasons for not using this drug. Also, as Figure 6 illustrates, more than a third of 12th graders view drug education of considerable or great value, and an additional 37 percent view it of some value. These survey results remind us that prevention programs are essential.