Positive relationships help kids avoid prescription drug abuse: study

Cincinnati – Positive relationships with parents and peers may help adolescents avoid prescription drug abuse, according to a new study from the University of Cincinnati.

Researchers examined data – collected by the Coalition for a Drug-Free Greater Cincinnati for a 2009-2010 survey – on more than 54,000 students in grades 7-12. Almost 14 percent of respondents reported using prescription drugs without a prescription, the study abstract states. Drug abuse was more likely among adolescents who engaged in other risky behaviors and had friends who used drugs, alcohol or tobacco.

Conversely, having positive connections with teachers, parents and peers who did not approve of drug use was found to lower an adolescent’s chance of abusing prescription drugs.

The study was published in the May issue of the Journal of Primary Prevention.