Risk Factors Associated with Substance Abuse among Adolescents

Substance abuse is a global public health problem with physical, social, psychological, economic, and health implications. Adolescent age is an important transitional period and comes with a high level of vulnerability, curiosity, experimentation, and making choices that may be detrimental to them in the long run. The problem of substance abuse has become very popular among adolescents, several researchers from different parts of the world have reported a high prevalence rate of substance abuse among teenagers and its resultant health and social problems. This study identified four different levels of factors that influence substance abuse among teenagers which includes family-related problems, and individual, psychological and social factors. Different preventive measures have also been identified, highlighting roles that should be played by family, the community, schools, as well as the government. These measures will have a great impact on curbing the menace of substance abuse among young people in societies, they will be able to avoid risky behaviors, function effectively, and achieve their dreams.