Drugs threaten our nation's youth. Drug abuse can lead to physical problems, emotional damage, and a decline in educational achievement and productivity. This digest discusses the extent of drug abuse among youth, why drug abuse occurs, the effects of drug abuse, what schools can do to combat the problem, prevention programs, what teachers and principals can do, and future needs for drug abuse prevention programs. Sixty-one percent of high school seniors have used drugs. During the last decade the percentage of children using drugs by sixth grade has tripled.
More males use drugs than females, but the gap between the two has become smaller.
Acceptance by peers becomes especially important when children leave elementary schools and begin junior high. Often simple pleasure serves as a motive. For example, cocaine and amphetamines give users a false sense of performing at a high level when on the drug. Those dependent on drugs sometimes support their habits by stealing, selling drugs to others, and sexually prostituting themselves. School administrators should determine the extent of the drug problem within their jurisdiction before initiating a new intervention program.