National survey results on drug use obtained by Monitoring the Future have a significant value to the development of various approaches with regard to the prevention of drug abuse. The survey covers serious problems, including the use of illicit and psychotherapeutic drugs as well as marijuana consumption. Gathered and analyzed statistic data play a considerable role in the investigation and prevention of such controversial issues as vaping, tobacco and alcohol abuse.
Nowadays, overall drug use remains on the same level without noticeable positive advances, and no negative tendencies have occurred. The most concerning trend which requires attention for prevention interventions is related to vaping. Even though the trend represents a decrease in vaping, the consumption rates still remain alarmingly high (Johnston et al., 2021). Therefore, vaping trends are both a reason of concern and an example of progress in prevention. Alcohol and cigarettes should also be targeted by the development of prevention initiatives as their trends do not demonstrate any positive change (Johnston et al., 2021). On the other hand, decreased use of many other drugs and substances may be considered as a result of effective prevention strategy (Johnston et al., 2021). The above-mentioned substances include synthetic marijuana, psychotherapeutic drugs, crystal methamphetamine and smokeless tobacco, particularly, snus.
As for my personal anticipations regarding current trends in adolescent drug use, the study has confirmed most of them. I expected vaping to be on a declining trend, but it still remains one of the most common issues, topping even alcohol and cigarettes in some cases. I also anticipated an overall minor decrease in the use of all substances. However, I was surprised by the fact that alcohol had a considerable growth in consumption, which may have been caused by external factors, including lockdown. Conclusively, adolescent drugs and substance abuse is a relevant issue that requires constant monitoring and the development of prevention measures.
Reference
Johnston , L. D., Miech, R. A., O’Malley, P. M., Bachman , J. G., Schulenberg, J. E., & Patrick, M. E. (2021).Monitoring the Future national survey results on drug use, 1975-2020: Overview, key findings on adolescent drug use. Institute for Social Research.