Drugs have the ability to distort one's perception of the outside world. Problems do not seem as real or as important. Drugs may be used as a coping mechanism to help them relate to others, deal with stress, or to make things seem better than they are. Since most adults do not approve of alcohol and drug use among adolescents, young people may use these substances to rebel against parents, teachers, and other symbols of authority. Drugs may be used out of spite to hurt others.
Rebellion can be a positive stage of change to gain autonomy if used in a constructive manner.
The problem is more than just the existence of drugs in our society, it is also the large quantities of these drugs that are easy to get. Drug use, especially alcohol, is seen as adult behaviour. By drinking, some teenagers feel they are part of the adult world. Youth often feel that they are indestructible and nothing can hurt them. In particular, smoking can easily become part of any get together and alcohol is a part of teenage parties.