Exploring the risk factors for substance abuse development among adolescents

Abstract

<p>Substance abuse (SA) is a complex problematic phenomenon that continues to affect the young population, particularly adolescents.&nbsp; Research shows that this epidemic involves many different factors leading up to SA initiation.&nbsp; Common psychological, social, and familial factors are discussed in this literature review.&nbsp; Adolescents can present with behavioral risk factors as a result of internal or external experiences both past and present.&nbsp; Neuman&rsquo;s Systems Model serves as a theory for understanding how SA can alter multiple aspects of an individual&rsquo;s life, as well as their families and vice versa.&nbsp; For advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), early identification of these risk factors could aid in primary prevention interventions for these adolescents.&nbsp; Additionally, this literature review will discuss specific screening tools currently available for APRNs to use in practice and explore whether they have proven to be beneficial for future prevention efforts.&nbsp; The results of research conducted to identify risk factors for development of SA suggests the need for increased recognition of well-developed screening tools to be used in primary care settings by APRNs.&nbsp;</p>