Republicans and Democrats have somewhat different views about the causes of teen drug use. Republicans are slightly more likely to cite a lack of parental supervision as a very important factor in what a teen does. On the other hand, a majority of Democrats believe living in poverty and a lack of information about the dangers of drugs are very important factors in teenage drug use, while just slightly over a third of Republicans agree. Blaming Hollywood While the entertainment industry's portrayal of drug use is not cited as one of the leading factors in determining whether a teen tries drugs, the public levels harsh criticism at Hollywood. Though majorities of all major demographic groups are dissatisfied with the way drug use is portrayed in the movies and on TV, political conservatives are the most critical.
Younger respondents are the least critical of the entertainment industry.
Parents are slightly more critical of the way drugs are portrayed by movies and television, but are no more likely to say this affects their kids than non-parents.