Drug abuse in adolescents is one of the leading causes of unwanted teenage pregnancies. Drug abuse is a pattern of continued use of drugs hence causes significant problems in an individual’s life. The most frequently abused drugs among adolescents are alcohol, marihuana, tobacco, cocaine, inhalants, and steroids. Besides, some of them even abuse prescription drugs like cough syrup. Extensive use of drugs interferes with the thinking of adolescents hence engage in activities that are uncalled for. Therefore, drug abuse in adolescents is a problem that needs addressing early enough.
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PREVENTION MEASURES FOR DRUG ABUSE IN ADOLESCENTS
There are three major approaches to prevent drug abuse in adolescents. First, the school-based prevention programs which provide drug and alcohol education hence improve their interpersonal and behavioral skills. Second, community-based prevention programs that involve the media, aimed at enlightening parents and community groups on the relationship between drugs and unwanted teenage pregnancies. Lastly, family-focused prevention programs that involve parent training, family self-help groups, and adolescent social skills training. Consequently, these programs help to decrease the use of drugs among teenagers and improve parenting skills.
THE CAUSES OF UNWANTED TEENAGE PREGNANCIES
Unwanted teenage pregnancies are a problem in many countries and the causes are as follows. The lack of information about sexual and reproductive health and right s puts young girls at risk of engaging in sexual activities without knowing the consequences. Also, family, social and community pressure on teenage girls to get married puts them at a high risk of unwanted pregnancies. Additionally, the irresponsible use of drugs and drug abuse among adolescents often results in irresponsible sexual activities that lead to unwanted pregnancies. Besides, the lack of education and dropping out of school leaves young girls with no option other than getting pregnant.
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