Other behavioral changes may include problems with communication, physical and mental deterioration, and unprovoked outbursts. If excessive drug use continues, the person can become more demanding and intolerable, and may even commit crimes or attempt suicide. Fortunately, there are a number of successful drug treatment programs available to help abusers cope with their problems. For more information about behavioral signs of drug abuse, consult a local health care professional. Although medical experts have been unable to conclusively determine what causes people to abuse drugs, there have been a number of explanations offered.
People appear to use drugs for a variety of different reasons.
Some may begin using drugs in adolescence because of peer pressure or beliefs that it makes them seem more sophisticated or grown up, while others might start using drugs as an expression of rebellion against the dictates of their parents or society in general. In recent years, there has been a great deal of research into the possibility of a biological influence. Proponents of this theory approach drug addiction as a disease, and point to evidence suggesting a genetic predisposition to drug abuse. Other theorists believe the behavior is learned solely from observing others, or that the use of drugs is somehow reinforced or encouraged by social relationships. In addition, a person's belief systems or expectations about drugs may play a role in drug abuse.