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The Adolescent Brain and Substance Use
February 27th, 2013 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Adolescence is a unique period of growth characterized by major physiological, psychological, social, and brain changes. It is also a time when two harmful behaviors often emerge: substance use and risk taking. National surveys indicate that the prevalence of substance use increases markedly from early to late adolescence, peaking during the transition into young adulthood. Nearly 8% of adolescents ages 12 to 17 and 21% of 18- to 25-year-olds meet diagnostic criteria for a substance use disorder (SUD). Adolescent brain development and advances in cognitive control do not occur in a straight...
February 27th, 2013 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Adolescence is a unique period of growth characterized by major physiological, psychological, social, and brain changes. It is also a time when two harmful behaviors often emerge: substance use and risk taking. National surveys indicate that the prevalence of substance use increases markedly from early to late adolescence, peaking during the transition into young adulthood. Nearly 8% of adolescents ages 12 to 17 and 21% of 18- to 25-year-olds meet diagnostic criteria for a substance use disorder (SUD). Adolescent brain development and advances in cognitive control do not occur in a straight...
Different Genes Appear to Influence Drinking Over Time
January 28th, 2013 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
It is often thought that alcohol consumption is influenced by genetic factors. However, the degree to which genetics influences drinking continues to be an important area of research. Prior research on the heritability – meaning what you can inherit from your ancestors – of drinking as it progresses from adolescence into adulthood has found that “total” heritability changes over time. Yet it remains unclear if the same genes underlie a person’s liability to drinking across developmental stages, or if different genes influence risk for drinking over time. Researchers...
January 28th, 2013 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
It is often thought that alcohol consumption is influenced by genetic factors. However, the degree to which genetics influences drinking continues to be an important area of research. Prior research on the heritability – meaning what you can inherit from your ancestors – of drinking as it progresses from adolescence into adulthood has found that “total” heritability changes over time. Yet it remains unclear if the same genes underlie a person’s liability to drinking across developmental stages, or if different genes influence risk for drinking over time. Researchers...
Psychiatric Nursing and High Risk College Drinking
January 28th, 2013 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
A recent article in the Journal of Psychosocial Nursing examines the issues surrounding alcohol abuse and dependence in college students and suggests implications for psychiatric nursing practice. The authors cite alarming facts: Excessive alcohol consumption is responsible for more than 4,600 deaths in underage youth each year. Although 21 is the legal drinking age, 11% of the alcohol consumed in the United States is by adolescents ages 12 to 20. The National Survey on Drug Use and Health (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2011) indicated that among full-time...
January 28th, 2013 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
A recent article in the Journal of Psychosocial Nursing examines the issues surrounding alcohol abuse and dependence in college students and suggests implications for psychiatric nursing practice. The authors cite alarming facts: Excessive alcohol consumption is responsible for more than 4,600 deaths in underage youth each year. Although 21 is the legal drinking age, 11% of the alcohol consumed in the United States is by adolescents ages 12 to 20. The National Survey on Drug Use and Health (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2011) indicated that among full-time...
Family Environments Impact Drug Behavior
November 27th, 2012 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Previous studies have shown that early family experiences have a large impact on children’s future behaviors, including substance use and other negative outcomes. As children establish their own families, they build upon the skills and practices they learned in their family of origin. Thus, both risk and protective factors from the family of origin affect levels of risk or protection in the family of cohabitation formed with a spouse or a romantic partner. Previous research has shown that alcohol and tobacco dependence are linked and are influenced by family environmental factors, both...
November 27th, 2012 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Previous studies have shown that early family experiences have a large impact on children’s future behaviors, including substance use and other negative outcomes. As children establish their own families, they build upon the skills and practices they learned in their family of origin. Thus, both risk and protective factors from the family of origin affect levels of risk or protection in the family of cohabitation formed with a spouse or a romantic partner. Previous research has shown that alcohol and tobacco dependence are linked and are influenced by family environmental factors, both...
Too Young to Drink, Too Young to Die
October 30th, 2012 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Auto crashes are the leading cause of death among 16 year old youth. Every state has laws restricting those under 21 from driving with any measureable amount of alcohol. Yet teen drivers involved in fatal alcohol related crashes often have blood alcohol concentrations (BAC) of 0.08% or above, the illegal limit for adult drivers. In 2011 one in ten high school students ages 16 and older reported drinking after driving in the last 30 days. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) analyzed data from the 1991-2011 national Youth Risk Behavior Surveys (YRBS) to determine the...
October 30th, 2012 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Auto crashes are the leading cause of death among 16 year old youth. Every state has laws restricting those under 21 from driving with any measureable amount of alcohol. Yet teen drivers involved in fatal alcohol related crashes often have blood alcohol concentrations (BAC) of 0.08% or above, the illegal limit for adult drivers. In 2011 one in ten high school students ages 16 and older reported drinking after driving in the last 30 days. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) analyzed data from the 1991-2011 national Youth Risk Behavior Surveys (YRBS) to determine the...
12-Step Attendance and Involvement Enhances Adolescent Recovery
September 4th, 2012 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Experimentation with alcohol and other drugs typically begins during adolescence and, for a significant number of youths, escalates into severe problems. Adolescents who misuse substances to the point where they need treatment, often are faced with costly and limited options for youth-specific care, as well as the fact of high post-treatment relapse rates. Mutual-help groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous, are less costly and generally provide a more available ongoing network of assistance. This study examined the degree to which adolescents currently attend...
September 4th, 2012 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Experimentation with alcohol and other drugs typically begins during adolescence and, for a significant number of youths, escalates into severe problems. Adolescents who misuse substances to the point where they need treatment, often are faced with costly and limited options for youth-specific care, as well as the fact of high post-treatment relapse rates. Mutual-help groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous, are less costly and generally provide a more available ongoing network of assistance. This study examined the degree to which adolescents currently attend...
Which Drug is the Gateway Drug?
August 24th, 2012 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
The “gateway drug theory” suggests that legal drugs such as tobacco and alcohol operate as gateways to the use of illicit drugs such as cocaine and heroin. However, there is still debate as to which drug – tobacco, alcohol, or even marijuana – is first in the procession that leads to more harmful and illegal drugs. This study in the Journal of School Health sought to determine which drug is the actual gateway drug and if licit drug use predicts later illicit drug use. The researchers analyzed data about the use of tobacco, alcohol, and other drugs by young adults (14,600 12 th...
August 24th, 2012 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
The “gateway drug theory” suggests that legal drugs such as tobacco and alcohol operate as gateways to the use of illicit drugs such as cocaine and heroin. However, there is still debate as to which drug – tobacco, alcohol, or even marijuana – is first in the procession that leads to more harmful and illegal drugs. This study in the Journal of School Health sought to determine which drug is the actual gateway drug and if licit drug use predicts later illicit drug use. The researchers analyzed data about the use of tobacco, alcohol, and other drugs by young adults (14,600 12 th...
Parents Do Matter
August 24th, 2012 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Preventing harmful substance use and early intervention are critical to keeping youth healthy and successful. Parents are a key to prevention since parenting practices and perceptions about substance use can produce either a risky or protective environment for their children. The Partnership at Drugfree.org developed Parents: You Matter (PYM) to teach parents of 12- to 17-year-olds about substance use, and to provide them with tools and resources to prevent substance use or, if necessary, to intervene if harmful use occurs. This report in Community Science assessed the effectiveness of...
August 24th, 2012 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Preventing harmful substance use and early intervention are critical to keeping youth healthy and successful. Parents are a key to prevention since parenting practices and perceptions about substance use can produce either a risky or protective environment for their children. The Partnership at Drugfree.org developed Parents: You Matter (PYM) to teach parents of 12- to 17-year-olds about substance use, and to provide them with tools and resources to prevent substance use or, if necessary, to intervene if harmful use occurs. This report in Community Science assessed the effectiveness of...
Are 12-Step Meetings Safe for Youth?
June 19th, 2012 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Results from a number of studies have shown that participation in 12-step mutual help groups (MHG) by young people, especially those with more severe substance use problems, produces benefits at clinically meaningful levels. One such study found that Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) participation during the first 3 months of treatment resulted in an increase in days abstinent both concurrently and at a 6-month follow-up. Yet, despite numerous studies showing recovery-related benefits, there are persistent anecdotal concerns about the safety of these predominantly adult...
June 19th, 2012 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Results from a number of studies have shown that participation in 12-step mutual help groups (MHG) by young people, especially those with more severe substance use problems, produces benefits at clinically meaningful levels. One such study found that Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) participation during the first 3 months of treatment resulted in an increase in days abstinent both concurrently and at a 6-month follow-up. Yet, despite numerous studies showing recovery-related benefits, there are persistent anecdotal concerns about the safety of these predominantly adult...
Prevention Science Expanding Worldwide
June 19th, 2012 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Due in part to the worldwide investment and success in child health care more children are surviving into adolescence. The worldwide burden of disease has shifted to non-communicable diseases and behavior problems. Unsafe driving, mental health (self-inflicted injuries), and violence are now the three leading causes of adolescent mortality. Alcohol, tobacco, and drug misuse are implicated in those three leading causes as well as carrying their own harmful effects into adulthood. Sexually-transmitted infections (STI), HIV (AIDS virus) and teen pregnancy with maternal hemorrhage and...
June 19th, 2012 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Due in part to the worldwide investment and success in child health care more children are surviving into adolescence. The worldwide burden of disease has shifted to non-communicable diseases and behavior problems. Unsafe driving, mental health (self-inflicted injuries), and violence are now the three leading causes of adolescent mortality. Alcohol, tobacco, and drug misuse are implicated in those three leading causes as well as carrying their own harmful effects into adulthood. Sexually-transmitted infections (STI), HIV (AIDS virus) and teen pregnancy with maternal hemorrhage and...
Some Colleges Outscore Others in Prevention Policies
April 23rd, 2012 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
University of Minnesota researchers surveyed four year colleges, collecting data on their alcohol policies and practices. The objective was to inventory and analyze alcohol prevention efforts across the various sizes and types of U.S. colleges. Initially 2482 colleges with residential campuses that offered several majors were identified. A weighted procedure was used that sampled colleges in proportion to student enrollment. The final selection of 569 included 100 small private, 100 small public, 101 large private, and 268 large public colleges. Through telephone queries of an official...
April 23rd, 2012 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
University of Minnesota researchers surveyed four year colleges, collecting data on their alcohol policies and practices. The objective was to inventory and analyze alcohol prevention efforts across the various sizes and types of U.S. colleges. Initially 2482 colleges with residential campuses that offered several majors were identified. A weighted procedure was used that sampled colleges in proportion to student enrollment. The final selection of 569 included 100 small private, 100 small public, 101 large private, and 268 large public colleges. Through telephone queries of an official...
Clues to Adolescents at Risk for Alcohol Dependence
December 7th, 2011 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Current data show that drinking usually begins in the teen years. By 12th grade 86% have consumed alcohol and 55% have had at least one drink in the last 30 days. Previous research also indicates that many teen drinkers experience some signs of alcohol dependence without a prior diagnosis of alcohol abuse. Further studies have shown that an early age of drinking onset (14 and under) considerably increases the likelihood of experiencing alcohol dependence in adulthood. This current study at Wesleyan University sought to assess the prevalence of alcohol dependence diagnosis in a...
December 7th, 2011 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Current data show that drinking usually begins in the teen years. By 12th grade 86% have consumed alcohol and 55% have had at least one drink in the last 30 days. Previous research also indicates that many teen drinkers experience some signs of alcohol dependence without a prior diagnosis of alcohol abuse. Further studies have shown that an early age of drinking onset (14 and under) considerably increases the likelihood of experiencing alcohol dependence in adulthood. This current study at Wesleyan University sought to assess the prevalence of alcohol dependence diagnosis in a...
Parents and Peers Influence College Marijuana Use
October 5th, 2011 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Marijuana is the illicit drug most used by adolescents and young adults but has been rarely studied in older adults. The drug is known to cause short term memory deficits and difficulties with concentration. Consequently, compared to non-users, adolescent and college users report poorer academic performance, less time studying, and increased absence from classes. Opportunities to initiate use of marijuana are common in teen years and continue throughout college and into adulthood. The results of a recent study showed that both parental and peer influence play a role in late adolescence...
October 5th, 2011 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Marijuana is the illicit drug most used by adolescents and young adults but has been rarely studied in older adults. The drug is known to cause short term memory deficits and difficulties with concentration. Consequently, compared to non-users, adolescent and college users report poorer academic performance, less time studying, and increased absence from classes. Opportunities to initiate use of marijuana are common in teen years and continue throughout college and into adulthood. The results of a recent study showed that both parental and peer influence play a role in late adolescence...
Medical Marijuana Diverted to Adolescents
July 5th, 2011 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Fourteen US states have legalized medical marijuana, and 12 states are considering doing so. This widespread availability of medical marijuana raises concerns about its impact on adolescents through increased availability, altered perceptions of harmfulness, and changed social norms surrounding its use –all factors known to impact adolescent marijuana use and relapse after treatment. This University of Colorado-Denver study evaluated the prevalence of marijuana diversion into the hands of adolescents in treatment and explored the hypothesis that adolescents exposed to medical...
July 5th, 2011 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Fourteen US states have legalized medical marijuana, and 12 states are considering doing so. This widespread availability of medical marijuana raises concerns about its impact on adolescents through increased availability, altered perceptions of harmfulness, and changed social norms surrounding its use –all factors known to impact adolescent marijuana use and relapse after treatment. This University of Colorado-Denver study evaluated the prevalence of marijuana diversion into the hands of adolescents in treatment and explored the hypothesis that adolescents exposed to medical...
High School Pregaming: an indicator of wider hazardous alcohol use
June 2nd, 2011 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Pregaming is an urban slang term that has found its way into the mainstream vernacular. Pregaming is the practice of drinking alcohol prior to attending parties, sporting events or social gatherings. There have been studies of this practice in the college setting but little is known about the prevalence of this behavior in high school students. This study examined how gender, age, alcohol expectancies, motivations for drinking, and engagement in other risky alcohol use were associated with high school pregaming. The prevalence of this behavior was derived from a parent approved...
June 2nd, 2011 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Pregaming is an urban slang term that has found its way into the mainstream vernacular. Pregaming is the practice of drinking alcohol prior to attending parties, sporting events or social gatherings. There have been studies of this practice in the college setting but little is known about the prevalence of this behavior in high school students. This study examined how gender, age, alcohol expectancies, motivations for drinking, and engagement in other risky alcohol use were associated with high school pregaming. The prevalence of this behavior was derived from a parent approved...
U.S. Youth Switching to the Hard Stuff
June 2nd, 2011 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Nearly half of 8th-grade youth have used alcohol. By the end of high school almost three-fourths have initiated use. Alcohol is a key contributor to the causes of death among those 10 to 24 years—motor-vehicle mortality, suicide, and unintentional injuries. Alcohol continues to be the drug of choice among adolescents but consumption has shifted from beer to liquor. Yet, few studies have examined the effects of beverage-specific alcohol use, particularly hard liquor. Specific types of alcohol may be associated with different levels...
June 2nd, 2011 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Nearly half of 8th-grade youth have used alcohol. By the end of high school almost three-fourths have initiated use. Alcohol is a key contributor to the causes of death among those 10 to 24 years—motor-vehicle mortality, suicide, and unintentional injuries. Alcohol continues to be the drug of choice among adolescents but consumption has shifted from beer to liquor. Yet, few studies have examined the effects of beverage-specific alcohol use, particularly hard liquor. Specific types of alcohol may be associated with different levels...
Tailgating Proves Dangerous
May 6th, 2011 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Of historical interest, the practice of partying before events (tailgating) is associated with American football but it traces its origins to the 1861 Civil war Battle of Bull Run. Supporters of the Union showed up in their wagons with baskets of food and enthusiastically cheered for the Union soldiers. This modern day study measured alcohol consumption by students and non-students tailgating prior to football games at one southeastern university (School 1) and one Midwestern university (School 2). Approximately 75 % of those approached agreed to participate. Researchers did not...
May 6th, 2011 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Of historical interest, the practice of partying before events (tailgating) is associated with American football but it traces its origins to the 1861 Civil war Battle of Bull Run. Supporters of the Union showed up in their wagons with baskets of food and enthusiastically cheered for the Union soldiers. This modern day study measured alcohol consumption by students and non-students tailgating prior to football games at one southeastern university (School 1) and one Midwestern university (School 2). Approximately 75 % of those approached agreed to participate. Researchers did not...
Parental and Adolescent Drinking are Steps on the Path to Psychological Problems
May 6th, 2011 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Parents’ use of alcohol is a recognized factor in alcohol use and dependence in their offspring. Current estimates are that 40-60% of alcohol dependence can be attributed to genetics. The remaining risk factors include an individual’s family background, socialization, and psychological makeup. There is a known relationship between alcohol use and depression and anxiety disorders. This New York University School of Medicine study looked for a possible pathway from parental use of alcohol during their child’s adolescence and the appearance of psychological symptoms in young...
May 6th, 2011 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Parents’ use of alcohol is a recognized factor in alcohol use and dependence in their offspring. Current estimates are that 40-60% of alcohol dependence can be attributed to genetics. The remaining risk factors include an individual’s family background, socialization, and psychological makeup. There is a known relationship between alcohol use and depression and anxiety disorders. This New York University School of Medicine study looked for a possible pathway from parental use of alcohol during their child’s adolescence and the appearance of psychological symptoms in young...
Evidence-Based Prevention Programs for Schools
March 3rd, 2011 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Healthy People 2020 are a government-sponsored program to provide science-based 10-year objectives for improving the health of all Americans. One objective is to “Increase the proportion of elementary, middle, and senior high schools that provide comprehensive school health education to prevent health problems.” A University of North Carolina at Charlotte and Medical University of South Carolina study examined the role of education in this effort and identified evidence-based, peer-reviewed programs, strategies, and resources. The results were organized in the categories of sexual...
March 3rd, 2011 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Healthy People 2020 are a government-sponsored program to provide science-based 10-year objectives for improving the health of all Americans. One objective is to “Increase the proportion of elementary, middle, and senior high schools that provide comprehensive school health education to prevent health problems.” A University of North Carolina at Charlotte and Medical University of South Carolina study examined the role of education in this effort and identified evidence-based, peer-reviewed programs, strategies, and resources. The results were organized in the categories of sexual...
Substance Use among Early Adolescent Girls
February 4th, 2011 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
This study at Columbia University looked at the risk and protective factors surrounding alcohol and drug use by young girls. According to the study, adolescent girls are surpassing boys in their use of alcohol and other drugs. The objective was to learn more about gender-specific risk and protective factors - knowledge that might be useful in the design of prevention programs. Mother-daughter pairs (781) were recruited via ads, signs in buses, and a radio station serving the greater New York City. Three-fourths of the girls sampled were African American or Latina. Participants were given...
February 4th, 2011 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
This study at Columbia University looked at the risk and protective factors surrounding alcohol and drug use by young girls. According to the study, adolescent girls are surpassing boys in their use of alcohol and other drugs. The objective was to learn more about gender-specific risk and protective factors - knowledge that might be useful in the design of prevention programs. Mother-daughter pairs (781) were recruited via ads, signs in buses, and a radio station serving the greater New York City. Three-fourths of the girls sampled were African American or Latina. Participants were given...
Higher Socioeconomic Status May Lead to Early Adult Drug Problems
January 7th, 2011 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
This recent University of Chicago study looked at the relationship between the socioeconomic status (SES) of adolescents and their substance use in early adulthood. Much of the earlier research in this area focused on substance abuse in lower SES populations. However, growing evidence shows that teens from high SES backgrounds are also at high risk. This study analyzed the relationship between adolescent SES (measured by parental education and income) and their adult substance use. The data came from The National Longitudinal Survey of Adolescent Health (AddHealth) a nationally...
January 7th, 2011 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
This recent University of Chicago study looked at the relationship between the socioeconomic status (SES) of adolescents and their substance use in early adulthood. Much of the earlier research in this area focused on substance abuse in lower SES populations. However, growing evidence shows that teens from high SES backgrounds are also at high risk. This study analyzed the relationship between adolescent SES (measured by parental education and income) and their adult substance use. The data came from The National Longitudinal Survey of Adolescent Health (AddHealth) a nationally...
Effectiveness of High School Substance Use Prevention Programs
January 7th, 2011 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Surveys show that initiation of teen substance use increases rapidly during middle and high school grades. This study points to a lack of evidence-based drug prevention programs in high schools. Researchers identified eight prevention programs recognized as evidence-based and classified as “model” or effective” based on the following criteria: (1) they target substance use; (2) they are intended for all students; (3) they are designed for use in high school; and (4) they are classified as effective by either the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) or...
January 7th, 2011 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Surveys show that initiation of teen substance use increases rapidly during middle and high school grades. This study points to a lack of evidence-based drug prevention programs in high schools. Researchers identified eight prevention programs recognized as evidence-based and classified as “model” or effective” based on the following criteria: (1) they target substance use; (2) they are intended for all students; (3) they are designed for use in high school; and (4) they are classified as effective by either the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) or...
Alcohol, Tobacco, and Marijuana Interactions
December 2nd, 2010 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
This genetic analysis suggests that the way commonly used and misused drugs affect an individual may be inherited. Also, the way genetics and environment influence the effects of one drug may impact the effects of other drugs. According to this University of Colorado study, the sometime-in-a-lifetime use of the most commonly used psychoactive drugs are alcohol 91.6%, tobacco, 73.6% and marijuana 42.4%. Since the same brain pathways are used by psychoactive drugs, the way one affects an individual may indicate how the pathways will respond to others. The researchers looked at possible...
December 2nd, 2010 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
This genetic analysis suggests that the way commonly used and misused drugs affect an individual may be inherited. Also, the way genetics and environment influence the effects of one drug may impact the effects of other drugs. According to this University of Colorado study, the sometime-in-a-lifetime use of the most commonly used psychoactive drugs are alcohol 91.6%, tobacco, 73.6% and marijuana 42.4%. Since the same brain pathways are used by psychoactive drugs, the way one affects an individual may indicate how the pathways will respond to others. The researchers looked at possible...
Gender Effects on Drug Disorders
December 2nd, 2010 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
A recent study by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) examined gender differences in rates of substance abuse and dependence among young people. Earlier research has shown that males appear to be at greater risk than females for substance use problems. (In 2008 males comprised 60% of the 20 million youthful illicit drug users, and more than 2/3 of those in drug abuse treatment.) However, these studies provided only limited insight into gender differences in drug use or drug consequences. The objective of this NIDA study was to determine whether rates of substance use disorders...
December 2nd, 2010 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
A recent study by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) examined gender differences in rates of substance abuse and dependence among young people. Earlier research has shown that males appear to be at greater risk than females for substance use problems. (In 2008 males comprised 60% of the 20 million youthful illicit drug users, and more than 2/3 of those in drug abuse treatment.) However, these studies provided only limited insight into gender differences in drug use or drug consequences. The objective of this NIDA study was to determine whether rates of substance use disorders...
Does Availability Increase Teen Drinking?
September 22nd, 2010 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Restricting access to alcohol is thought to reduce underage drinking. Community policies such as strict enforcement of underage drinking laws and responsible beverage server training have proven effective. Research has also shown an association between geographic availability of alcohol and consumption. A recent study by the Pacific Institute for Research and Evaluation examined whether the frequently advocated strategy of limiting the number or density of alcohol purveyors in a neighborhood further reduces underage drinking. The study focused on adolescents from 50 California zip...
September 22nd, 2010 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Restricting access to alcohol is thought to reduce underage drinking. Community policies such as strict enforcement of underage drinking laws and responsible beverage server training have proven effective. Research has also shown an association between geographic availability of alcohol and consumption. A recent study by the Pacific Institute for Research and Evaluation examined whether the frequently advocated strategy of limiting the number or density of alcohol purveyors in a neighborhood further reduces underage drinking. The study focused on adolescents from 50 California zip...
Brief Intervention Cuts Alcohol – Related Teen Violence
September 22nd, 2010 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
In 2006 there were nearly 20,000 emergency department (ED) visits by patients aged 15 to 24 years. These ED visits are an opportunity for intervention efforts to reach adolescents not attending school, who lack a primary care MD, or who are otherwise outside mainstream medical care. A recent study conducted at the Hurley Medical Center in Flint, Michigan looked at whether therapist and computer interventions could be effective in reducing adolescent violence and alcohol misuse. Over a 3-year period (2006-2009) 3,338 patients 14-18 years old completed a 15-minute computerized survey....
September 22nd, 2010 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
In 2006 there were nearly 20,000 emergency department (ED) visits by patients aged 15 to 24 years. These ED visits are an opportunity for intervention efforts to reach adolescents not attending school, who lack a primary care MD, or who are otherwise outside mainstream medical care. A recent study conducted at the Hurley Medical Center in Flint, Michigan looked at whether therapist and computer interventions could be effective in reducing adolescent violence and alcohol misuse. Over a 3-year period (2006-2009) 3,338 patients 14-18 years old completed a 15-minute computerized survey....
A Genetic Clue to Adolescent Alcohol Use
August 19th, 2010 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
In most Western societies, alcohol use is widespread among adolescents and young adults. In the U.S., the average adolescent drinks his first alcoholic beverage at the age of 13. Typically, alcohol use increases during adolescence and young adulthood but stabilizes or decreases at the age of approximately 25. Family, twin and adoption studies suggest that there are genetic risk factors for alcoholism. Different versions of a gene are called alleles and different alleles have different effects. Serotonin or 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) is a neurotransmitter found in the central...
August 19th, 2010 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
In most Western societies, alcohol use is widespread among adolescents and young adults. In the U.S., the average adolescent drinks his first alcoholic beverage at the age of 13. Typically, alcohol use increases during adolescence and young adulthood but stabilizes or decreases at the age of approximately 25. Family, twin and adoption studies suggest that there are genetic risk factors for alcoholism. Different versions of a gene are called alleles and different alleles have different effects. Serotonin or 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) is a neurotransmitter found in the central...
Alcohol, Autos, and College – A High Risk Combo
July 9th, 2010 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
College students are likely to be more vulnerable to alcohol related traffic risk behavior because they have less driving experience. Also, binge drinking and other risky alcohol-related behavior are highly prevalent in that population. Alcohol consumption and alcohol impaired driving appear to be common even before college. Almost half of high school seniors report having used alcohol in the past 30 days, and 28% have been drunk. Past month drinking and driving by high school seniors is estimated to be about 15%. This investigation looked at changes in traffic risk behavior as...
July 9th, 2010 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
College students are likely to be more vulnerable to alcohol related traffic risk behavior because they have less driving experience. Also, binge drinking and other risky alcohol-related behavior are highly prevalent in that population. Alcohol consumption and alcohol impaired driving appear to be common even before college. Almost half of high school seniors report having used alcohol in the past 30 days, and 28% have been drunk. Past month drinking and driving by high school seniors is estimated to be about 15%. This investigation looked at changes in traffic risk behavior as...
AA and NA Help Teens
January 31st, 2009 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Despite the widespread use of 12-Step approaches and numerous referrals to Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) by youth-service providers, there is little “hard scientific evidence” showing that these groups can improve outcomes among youth who are in recovery. Part of the issue is that mutual-help organizations like AA and NA are community organizations based on anonymity, and cannot be directly controlled by researchers. This study examined how helpful AA and NA may be for adolescents in their transition to young adulthood who were initially enrolled in treatment...
January 31st, 2009 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Despite the widespread use of 12-Step approaches and numerous referrals to Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) by youth-service providers, there is little “hard scientific evidence” showing that these groups can improve outcomes among youth who are in recovery. Part of the issue is that mutual-help organizations like AA and NA are community organizations based on anonymity, and cannot be directly controlled by researchers. This study examined how helpful AA and NA may be for adolescents in their transition to young adulthood who were initially enrolled in treatment...
Genes Influence Early Drinking
October 31st, 2008 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
A 2001/2002 survey by the World Health Organization found that about 80 percent of young people began drinking before they were16 years old. Furthermore, the average age of drinking for the first time was 12 years. Boys reported drinking for the first time at an average age of 12.3 years and girls at an average of 12 years. As in many other countries Dutch adolescents establish a drinking pattern early in life. This University of Amsterdam study looked at the contribution of genes and environment to the initiation of alcohol use and frequency of drinking among early adolescents in The...
October 31st, 2008 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
A 2001/2002 survey by the World Health Organization found that about 80 percent of young people began drinking before they were16 years old. Furthermore, the average age of drinking for the first time was 12 years. Boys reported drinking for the first time at an average age of 12.3 years and girls at an average of 12 years. As in many other countries Dutch adolescents establish a drinking pattern early in life. This University of Amsterdam study looked at the contribution of genes and environment to the initiation of alcohol use and frequency of drinking among early adolescents in The...
Where There Is Smoke
April 30th, 2007 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Cigarette smoking and alcohol use disorders (AUD) have been closely linked. Yet it is not clear whether higher rates of AUD among smokers are due to heavier drinking or whether smokers are more vulnerable to AUD than non-smokers who drink the same heavier amounts. Using data from the U.S. National Survey on Drug Use and Health, researchers looked at a representative sample of U.S adolescents and young adults to analyze the relationship between smoking and AUD. Nearly 75,000 non-institutionalized 12-20 year olds from the civilian population were studied for current diagnosis of alcohol...
April 30th, 2007 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Cigarette smoking and alcohol use disorders (AUD) have been closely linked. Yet it is not clear whether higher rates of AUD among smokers are due to heavier drinking or whether smokers are more vulnerable to AUD than non-smokers who drink the same heavier amounts. Using data from the U.S. National Survey on Drug Use and Health, researchers looked at a representative sample of U.S adolescents and young adults to analyze the relationship between smoking and AUD. Nearly 75,000 non-institutionalized 12-20 year olds from the civilian population were studied for current diagnosis of alcohol...
Early Intervention with Youth More Effective
October 31st, 2006 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Alcohol is the drug of choice for youth in the United States. By 8th grade, more than 40 percent of youth have used alcohol; by 12th grade, almost 80 percent have done so. Many of these young people began drinking at early ages. On average, boys start drinking earlier than girls, and whites and Native Americans start drinking earlier than other races/ethnicities. With alcohol consumption such a prevalent behavior among young people, it is crucial to understand the initiation of drinking as well as possible causes so as to facilitate interventions to delay this behavior. This study 1)...
October 31st, 2006 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Alcohol is the drug of choice for youth in the United States. By 8th grade, more than 40 percent of youth have used alcohol; by 12th grade, almost 80 percent have done so. Many of these young people began drinking at early ages. On average, boys start drinking earlier than girls, and whites and Native Americans start drinking earlier than other races/ethnicities. With alcohol consumption such a prevalent behavior among young people, it is crucial to understand the initiation of drinking as well as possible causes so as to facilitate interventions to delay this behavior. This study 1)...
A Bad Rap for Rap Music
August 31st, 2006 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Congreve wrote in 1697, “Music has Charms to sooth a savage Breast, to soften Rocks, or bend a knotted Oak.” Research seems to show that this famous adage is not valid in our day, especially if it is the music popular with American youth. Prior research suggests that there are connections between preferences for certain music genres and risky behaviors. Studies have concluded that rap music, the predominant genre of hip-hop culture, more than any other genre, encourages risky behaviors and may have some influence on youth. Many rap musicians have promoted alcoholic beverages, especially...
August 31st, 2006 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Congreve wrote in 1697, “Music has Charms to sooth a savage Breast, to soften Rocks, or bend a knotted Oak.” Research seems to show that this famous adage is not valid in our day, especially if it is the music popular with American youth. Prior research suggests that there are connections between preferences for certain music genres and risky behaviors. Studies have concluded that rap music, the predominant genre of hip-hop culture, more than any other genre, encourages risky behaviors and may have some influence on youth. Many rap musicians have promoted alcoholic beverages, especially...
How Very Young Girls View Alcohol
January 31st, 2006 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Alcohol use among all adolescents has always been an area of concern. In recent years, the rates of alcohol use among very young female adolescents have been of special interest, and have been increasing as well. This study examines the prevalence of alcohol use, accompanying sociodemographic factors, expectancies, and future intentions among girls eight to 10 years of age. Researchers examined data taken from the ongoing Pittsburgh Girls Study, in which alcohol-use behaviors and attitudes were assessed annually during a three-year period among a community sample of preadolescent girls....
January 31st, 2006 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Alcohol use among all adolescents has always been an area of concern. In recent years, the rates of alcohol use among very young female adolescents have been of special interest, and have been increasing as well. This study examines the prevalence of alcohol use, accompanying sociodemographic factors, expectancies, and future intentions among girls eight to 10 years of age. Researchers examined data taken from the ongoing Pittsburgh Girls Study, in which alcohol-use behaviors and attitudes were assessed annually during a three-year period among a community sample of preadolescent girls....
Lower Copayment Brings More Adolescents Into Treatment
April 30th, 2005 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Alcohol and drug use by teenagers creates major health and policy issues. The sheer size of this group – today’s adolescents make up the largest generation in American history – illuminates the need for substance-use treatment services. This study looks at the effects of a reduction in the copayment amount by a large self-insured state employer on utilization of adolescent services. Specifically, does the number of adolescent users of substance-use outpatient services increase if there is a resultant reduction in cost-sharing arrangements? Researchers analyzed 31,585 records on...
April 30th, 2005 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Alcohol and drug use by teenagers creates major health and policy issues. The sheer size of this group – today’s adolescents make up the largest generation in American history – illuminates the need for substance-use treatment services. This study looks at the effects of a reduction in the copayment amount by a large self-insured state employer on utilization of adolescent services. Specifically, does the number of adolescent users of substance-use outpatient services increase if there is a resultant reduction in cost-sharing arrangements? Researchers analyzed 31,585 records on...
Early Sleep Difficulties May Point to Later A&D Problems
August 31st, 2004 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
August 31, 2004 Researchers already know that some adults with sleep problems later develop alcohol-use disorders. No long term research, however, has studied the relationship between sleep problems (overtiredness and difficulty sleeping) during childhood and subsequent alcohol use during adolescence. This study examined whether sleep problems in early childhood predict the onset of alcohol and other drug use in adolescence, and also if such a relationship is affected by other known predictors of early onset alcohol use and problems, such as attention problems, anxiety/depression, and...
August 31st, 2004 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
August 31, 2004 Researchers already know that some adults with sleep problems later develop alcohol-use disorders. No long term research, however, has studied the relationship between sleep problems (overtiredness and difficulty sleeping) during childhood and subsequent alcohol use during adolescence. This study examined whether sleep problems in early childhood predict the onset of alcohol and other drug use in adolescence, and also if such a relationship is affected by other known predictors of early onset alcohol use and problems, such as attention problems, anxiety/depression, and...
Does Alcohol Advertising in Magazines Target Adolescents?
October 31st, 2003 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Not surprisingly, research has found that adolescents who are exposed to large amounts of alcohol advertising are more likely to use alcohol. In a recent study, researchers counted alcohol advertisements that appeared in 35 of 48 major US magazines from 1997-2001. During this period the alcohol industry placed 9,148 ads at a cost of $696 million. The authors found that after adjustment for age, sex, race and household income, as well as frequency of publication and cost per advertisement, both beer and distilled liquor advertisements appeared more frequently in magazines with higher...
October 31st, 2003 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Not surprisingly, research has found that adolescents who are exposed to large amounts of alcohol advertising are more likely to use alcohol. In a recent study, researchers counted alcohol advertisements that appeared in 35 of 48 major US magazines from 1997-2001. During this period the alcohol industry placed 9,148 ads at a cost of $696 million. The authors found that after adjustment for age, sex, race and household income, as well as frequency of publication and cost per advertisement, both beer and distilled liquor advertisements appeared more frequently in magazines with higher...
Who Do Alcohol Ads Think They Are Kidding?
January 31st, 2003 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
More than $1 billion is spent on alcohol advertising each year via television, radio, magazines, billboards, and posters in public venues. Although many complex factors (parents, friends, other environmental influences) shape children’s attitudes about alcohol, there is a growing concern about the potential effects that alcohol advertising may have on young people. Studies indicate that children and adolescents who are more exposed to alcohol advertisements 1) believe that drinking is more likely to have positive consequences, 2) perceive higher levels of alcohol use by, and approval of,...
January 31st, 2003 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
More than $1 billion is spent on alcohol advertising each year via television, radio, magazines, billboards, and posters in public venues. Although many complex factors (parents, friends, other environmental influences) shape children’s attitudes about alcohol, there is a growing concern about the potential effects that alcohol advertising may have on young people. Studies indicate that children and adolescents who are more exposed to alcohol advertisements 1) believe that drinking is more likely to have positive consequences, 2) perceive higher levels of alcohol use by, and approval of,...
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