BIOLOGICAL, PSYCHOLOGICAL, AND SOCIAL-CULTURAL FACTORS THAT CONTRIBUTE TO DRUG USE

Biological

Some people are genetically more likely to be vulnerable to drugs.  Often someone whose parents abuse drugs will develop that habit, especially if the mother used drugs during her pregnancy.  Children who are excitable, impulsive, and fearless (traits that are genetically influenced) are more likely as teens to smoke, drink, and use drugs.  Also, researchers have identified genes that are more common among people predisposed to alcohol dependency.  These genes produce deficiencies in the brain's natural dopamine reward system, which is impacted by addictive drugs.

Psychological

One who fells like his or her life is meaningless and directionless, often turn to drugs or alcohol.  Many users have experiences significant stress or failure and are depressed.  Drugs may temporarily give the depressed individual a euphoric high, or give them a sense of self-control, dull the pain, or just be a way to cope with anger, anxiety, or insomnia.

Social-Cultural

Especially for teenagers, drug use has social roots.  Most teen drinking or drug use is done for social reasons, not as a way to cope with problems.  Peer pressure and influence is a heavily factor in people's initial drug use.  Also, alcohol tends to develop from cultural roots and differs among ethnic groups.  This is seen on college campuses and fraternities.  African-Americans, the Amish, Muslims, Mennonites, Orthodox Jews, and Mormons have extremely low rates or drug addiction and alcohol use.   The Irish, British, Germans, Italians, and Catholics typically drink more than average.