Between 1996 and 1999, use of licit and illicit drugs among the nation's youths was increasing. Not surprisingly, this has led some to speculate about the extent to which drug use and abuse by youths is related to the recent wave of school violence. This article will first discuss what is meant by drug use in schools, briefly describe the effects of the drugs most frequently used, and go on to examine the statistics about the extent and trends of drug use. In the context of discussing some of the myths about drugs, the author will examine the relationship between drug use or abuse and violence, especially among youths. Finally, the author will offer an explanation of why today's youths are using drugs and what our response to such use might be.
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