Individual risk factors for adolescent substance use

Identification of risk factors that influence initiation and escalation of drug use in the adolescent population is the approach which has gained currency. The wide array of risk factors involved can be condensed into three main domains: constitutional predisposition, environmental factors (family and peers) and life events. This has been complemented by a surging interest in protective factors. Recent research evidence has been helpful in defining the direction and strategy of prevention efforts. A definite trend has emerged in that family influences are being increasingly targeted. The rationale for this shift seems to come from the observation that home environment, family relationships and parenting styles are almost always involved as risk factors, mediators or as protective factors.