Alcohol and drug prevention in nightlife settings worldwide

This research reviewed 17 varied studies from around the world on prevention of alcohol/drug use by young people in nightlife settings. Several practical and inexpensive strategies such as regular bar-staff training and community interventions were found to be effective. Education in isolation may not be effective unless supported by a broader range of strategies. Preventative education should also involve parents and schools.

Links:

• Alcohol and drug prevention in nightlife settings: a review of experimental studies - Findings

Research explains adolescent brain's reward from risky driving with friends

Statistics show that young drivers with passengers are more at risk, but this study identified specific brain activity and highlighted peer pressure. Young and older drivers were paid to use a driving simulator and have brain activity scanned. Adolescents chose riskier options more often when two peers were present, even with no verbal encouragement. Drs Laurence Steinberg and Jason Chein conclude that peer presence alone is sufficient to make risk appear more worthwhile to adolescents. This information might be interesting to anyone working in the prevention field but might also provide evidence in support of policies limiting adolescents driving with young friends.

Links:

• Peers Increase Teen Driving Risk via Heightened Reward Activity - NIDA

Two old chestnuts revisited: 'reward now or later' and 'nature or nurture'

Do teens want reward 'now or later'? Previous research says those wanting immediate reward are also more likely to abuse drugs and show poor behaviour. This latest study looks at the question from the standpoint of genetics v environmental influences. 372 pairs of 12-year-old US twins were offered a reward for taking tests; $7 now or $10 in a week. The process was repeated two years later. Twins were indeed found to be likely to make similar choices, increasingly so at the older age when teens are more at risk, but environment was also seen to influence choices made.

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That first university 'joint' can lead to serious problems

Here's an unsettling thought for any students, parents and others thinking that smoking joints at university is a harmless 'rite of passage'. Researchers from the College Life Study at The University of Maryland interviewed 1,253 first year students, following that up with six further annual studies. The students fell into six categories, from non-use to chronic users. There were no big health differences in year 1, but by year 6, significant differences were found for injuries, illnesses, emotional issues, psychiatric symptoms and general health-related quality of life. Results were worst for chronic users and for those whose use increased later on. The authors suggest, 'College settings might provide unique opportunities for confidential screening before problems escalate'.

Links:

• Marijuana use trajectories during the post-college transition: Health outcomes in young adulthood -Abstract