Initiation and Progression of Alcohol, Marijuana, and Cocaine Use Among Adolescent Abusers

Adolescent alcohol and drug use are associated with many negative consequences. Understanding factors in initiation and patterns of use could aid in treatment and prevention. Sixty‐four adolescents calling a cocaine hotline received structured telephone interviews. Mean age was 16.7 years. Two‐thirds of the adolescents were young men. Sixty‐six percent used alcohol; 60.9%, marijuana; 60.9%, cocaine; mean onset was at 13.57, 13.28, and 14.64 years, respectively. Daily use of alcohol was reported by 25.8%; marijuana, 36.9%; and cocaine, 41.3%. Eighty‐four percent tried drugs because of peer pressure. Multiple alcohol/drug use commonly started in early adolescence. Peer use and pressure were major reasons for initiation. Early interventions can incorporate and make use of these factors.