A few drugs that are considered gateway drugs include: alcohol, smoking cigarettes, and marijuana. If the alcohol or drug is acceptable then it potentially opens the door to trying other drugs.

Teen girls who have friends that: smoke marijuana, drink alcohol, or smoke cigarettes are more likely to get involved in poly-substance dependence or abuse. If a teens peers find the drug or alcohol socially acceptable it is likely the teen peer will also join in and use.

Developing healthy self esteem and educating your teen on the dangers of drug use is vital.

Parents’ attitude toward: alcohol, cigarettes, and marijuana has a huge influence on teens attitudes toward the gateway drugs. If parents are neutral teens will pick up on there attitude.

Parents should model healthy boundaries and behaviors related to: alcohol, drugs, and smoking. Parents should also set limits and be aware of teen peer behaviors. Create an environment where your child or teen is around healthy behaviors. Enroll your child or teen in sports programs.

Family counseling and individual therapy and counseling is a way to get to the roots of
unhealthy behaviors.