Adolescence is a time of growth and change, physically and mentally. This is especially true for the brain as it continues to develop until the mid to late 20s. One of the last parts of the brain that matures is the prefrontal cortex, which helps with planning and decision-making.
This is the reason why teens do not always make the healthiest decisions and are often led by other factors such as emotions or social benefits. Adolescents are at a vulnerable stage in life when it comes to drugs and alcohol, as they can lead to addiction.
According to the 2023 Oklahoma Youth Risk Behavior Survey, many Oklahoma teens do not see the risks of substance use. For example, about 14% of teens think binge drinking five or more alcoholic drinks in a two-hour time period or smoking one or more packs of cigarettes daily has little to no risk.About 19.1% currently smoke marijuana and about 16.1% use prescription drugs that are not prescribed to them or not in the appropriate manner. Some teens try drugs or alcohol to fit in, feel better, or out of curiosity, which can lead to addiction and other serious problems.
Research has shown that a strong perception of parental disapproval towards drug and alcohol use can significantly discourage young people from using substances. According to the 2023-24 Oklahoma Prevention Needs Assessment 81.8% of Le Flore County 12 graders believe that adults over the age of 21 believe it is wrong or very wrong for students their age to use marijuana. While 92.7% of 12 graders believe that adults over the age of 21 believe that is wrong or very wrong for students their age to use prescription drugs without a doctor telling them to take them (OPNA, 2024).
This highlights the importance of open communication between parents and children about the risks of drug and alcohol use and the role parental beliefs play in influencing adolescent choices. It is crucial for parents to have these conversations early and often to help build a protective environment against substance misuse along with leading by example.
Preventing substance use is the best strategy to keep teens safe and healthy. The use of alcohol, tobacco, and drugs as a teenager is also related to increased risk for adult substance use disorders. But if teens do not use alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs, they are less likely to use those substances later in life. For more information contact Southeast Oklahoma Community Based Prevention Services, 580-933-7232
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