Assignment 1: What Are The Most Popular Addictions To Mariju
Assignment 1what Are The Most Popular Addictions Marijuana Tobacco
Assignment 1 what are the most popular addictions (marijuana, tobacco, and alcohol) among adolescents? Please write a discussion about the three popular addiction. Please use APA format and DO NOT USE WEBSITES FOR SOURCES. This assignment only needs to be a few sentences. Assignment 2 Discuss your understanding of the special risks experienced by children and teens who use substances. Please use APA format and DO NOT USE WEBSITES FOR SOURCES. This assignment should be one page.
Paper For Above instruction
The most popular addictions among adolescents are marijuana, tobacco, and alcohol, each presenting significant health risks and social implications. Marijuana remains widely used due to its perception as less harmful, yet it can impair cognitive development and academic performance in teens (Meier et al., 2012). Tobacco use, primarily through cigarette smoking, has traditionally been prevalent and is associated with respiratory diseases, addiction, and increased risk of cardiovascular issues (USDHHS, 2014). Alcohol consumption among adolescents is common and can lead to risky behaviors, dependency, and long-term health problems, including liver disease and mental health disorders (Hingson et al., 2006). Understanding their addictive potential and health consequences underscores the importance of preventive interventions tailored for youth.
Children and teenagers who use substances face unique risks that can hinder their development and long-term well-being. The adolescent brain is still maturing, particularly in areas responsible for decision-making, impulse control, and judgment, making this demographic more vulnerable to addiction and its consequences (Giedd, 2015). Substance use during this critical period can interfere with neurodevelopment, leading to cognitive deficits, emotional disturbances, and increased susceptibility to mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety (Spear, 2018). Additionally, early substance use is linked to a higher likelihood of developing chronic substance dependence later in life, compounded by peer pressure, family instability, and socio-economic factors (Johnson et al., 2017). Prevention and early intervention are crucial in mitigating these risks and fostering healthier developmental trajectories (Hussong et al., 2015).
References
Giedd, J. N. (2015). The digital revolution and adolescent brain development. Child Development, 86(1), 23-29.
Hingson, R., Heeren, T., Winter, M., & Edwards, E. (2006). Age at drinking onset and alcohol dependence: Age at first drink and age at onset of alcohol dependence. Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine, 160(7), 739–746.
Johnson, V. E., et al. (2017). Adolescent brain development and the impact of substance use. Annual Review of Clinical Psychology, 13, 277-299.
Meier, M. H., et al. (2012). Persistent cannabis users show neuropsychological decline from childhood to midlife. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 109(40), E2657–E2664.
Spear, L. (2018). The adolescent brain and age-related behavioral manifestations. Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews, 97, 53-66.
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (USDHHS). (2014). The health consequences of smoking—50 years of progress: A report of the Surgeon General.