Which of the following risk factors especially applies to adolescent drug use?

• A. Misperception of peer norms
• B. Loss of positive body image
• C. Loss of parents
• D. All of the above

Answer: (D)

Adolescent drug use is shaped by multiple risk factors that often interact across social, emotional, and family life. Misperception of peer norms plays a big role because teens frequently overestimate how many peers are using substances. This false sense that “everyone does it” can push a teen to imitate that behavior to fit in, even if actual use is lower. At the same time, loss of positive body image can drive a teen to cope with distress or self-consciousness through substances, or to engage in risk-taking as a way to feel better or regain control. When a parent or caregiver is lost—through separation, death, or reduced involvement—supervision and emotional support decline, stress rises, and protective factors weaken, increasing the likelihood of experimenting with drugs.

Because these factors come from different domains—peer influence, self-image, and family structure—each adds a layer of risk, and together they cover the major ways adolescents may become more vulnerable to drug use. That’s why all of the above is the best answer. Prevention and support can focus on correcting normative misperceptions, promoting positive body image, and strengthening family connections to reduce overall risk.