What is a common misconception about adolescents and substance use?

The assertion that stress is the sole cause of drug use is a common misconception. While stress can indeed be a significant contributing factor to substance use among adolescents, it oversimplifies the complex nature of why young people may turn to drugs or alcohol. Adolescents often face numerous pressures, including peer influences, mental health issues, family dynamics, and social environments, all of which can play a role in their substance use.

Understanding substance use in adolescents requires a multi-faceted perspective that considers a combination of biological, psychological, and social factors rather than attributing it to a single cause such as stress. This broader view helps in effectively addressing and preventing substance use issues by recognizing that many youths may not use substances solely to cope with stress, but rather due to various other motivations and circumstances.