Why Children Use Alcohol or Drugs

Unfortunately, children sometimes make the decision to use alcohol or drugs. They do so for a variety of reasons. The following are some of these reasons.
Peer pressure
Unfortunately, there is a lot of peer pressure in the lives of children today. Especially if the child hangs out with a group that likes to do such things, he or she might feel compelled to do it. The other children may directly or indirectly pressure him or her to do it. They may feel that they need to do it to fit in. Once they start, it can obviously become a habit onto itself.
They want to do something rebellious
Sometimes children specifically do something because it is forbidden. The thrill of rebellion is strong in a lot of children, especially those who are unconsciously longing for their parents’ attention. They may feel that it is “cool” or “bad” to do drugs and /or alcohol, and associate themselves with it.
They want the buzz
Many children only think about the good feelings that alcohol or drugs can cause. They want to feel good. Some of them have difficult lives and might use it as a way to escape from the difficulties of real life. They may love the enjoyment and hear about it from other people.
They feel that they are immortal
Many children feel that they are immortal – that nothing bad can truly happen to them. Although most people know the dangers of consuming alcohol and drugs, these children ignore it. They think that they are in control, and oftentimes do not understand or realize that consequences can occur. They may feel that they cannot get addicted and cannot have something serious happen to them. Thus, they may have a “why not” attitude to trying it.
They feel that it is “cool”
Some kids may get the impression that it is cool to drink or do drugs. It may be something they associate with maturity or someone older than them, and they may feel that doing it will elevate them somehow. They may feel that it is the image that they want to portray.
Their parents use it
Unfortunately, some children are actually introduced to alcohol or drugs by their parents, either directly or indirectly. Children often learn more by example than anything else, and seeing others do it, they might want to try it for themselves.
Knowing the reasons for a child doing drugs or alcohol might help you stop or prevent it in your own child.
Updated On: 03/16/2010 Published On: 03/16/2010 Great gifts you can find at craft fairs