Social factors
Social factors
During adolescence, friendships and social acceptance become increasingly important. Many youth feel pressure to fit in, be accepted, or avoid feeling excluded. Youth report using substances to gain friends or avoid losing friends.
Peer influence may happen directly, such as being offered substances, or indirectly through:
• Social media
• Friend groups
• Parties and social settings
• Online trends
• Popular culture
Some youth may believe that “everyone is doing it,” even when that is not true. In fact, substance use among teenagers in the United States has continued to remain at historically low levels since 2021.
How you can help
• Encourage open conversations about peer pressure
• Help youth practice refusal skills
• Build confidence and self-esteem
•Encourage healthy friendships and activities
•Stay involved and connected to your child’s social world
• Help them find health alternatives that take into account their motivations around losing/gaining friends
Strong relationships with caring adults can help youth make safer decisions and feel more comfortable asking for help.