Deficit in Brain Function Puts Teens at Risk of Drug Abuse

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One of the key findings of this study, published in the March issue of the journal Alcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research, is that behaviors and actions are directly related to brain functioning.

"Teachers, caregivers, and other individuals should understand that each adolescent matures at a different rate; they do not always respond like adults, because their brains are not at the same level of functioning as an adult," McNamee said. "Responses and behaviors related to a certain situation are less easy for some adolescents to manage than others."

More information

The Nemours Foundation has more about teens and alcohol and drugs.