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Drug Addiction Among Adolescents

NCJ Number
119693
Journal
Bulletin on Narcotics Volume: 35 Issue: 3 Dated: special issue (July-September 1983) Pages: 81-86
Author(s)
C A Dias; F F Polvora
Date Published
1983
Length
5 pages
Annotation
Of the 5,419 drug abusers who came to the attention of three regional centers in Portugal during the period 1978 to 1981, the majority were adolescents.
Abstract
Of these drug abusers, 65 percent were between 15 and 21 years old or younger, 57 percent were male, and 43 percent were female. Cannabis was most frequently abused, followed by opiates, barbiturates, amphetamines, hallucinogens, alcohol, and cocaine. Depression and narcissistic regression were observed among young addicts, particularly opiate abusers. Prevention is emphasized, with particular importance attached to strengthening the identity of young drug abusers. 6 references. (Author abstract modified)