Which of the following is NOT a protective factor for reducing adolescent substance use?

Which of the following is NOT a protective factor for reducing adolescent substance use?

• A. Strong family support
• B. Exposure to peer networks that encourage drug use
• C. Involvement in school activities
• D. Access to community resources

Answer: (B)

Protective factors are conditions that reduce risk and promote healthy choices for adolescents. Strong family support helps with supervision, communication, and a sense of belonging, which lowers the chance of turning to substances. Involvement in school activities keeps teens engaged, builds self-esteem, and provides positive peer groups. Access to community resources offers mentors and support services that reinforce healthy decisions. Exposure to peer networks that encourage drug use, on the other hand, is not protective; it increases risk by elevating social pressure, normalizing use, and lowering perceived consequences. So this option is not a protective factor.

Protective factors are conditions that reduce risk and promote healthy choices for adolescents. Strong family support helps with supervision, communication, and a sense of belonging, which lowers the chance of turning to substances. Involvement in school activities keeps teens engaged, builds self-esteem, and provides positive peer groups. Access to community resources offers mentors and support services that reinforce healthy decisions. Exposure to peer networks that encourage drug use, on the other hand, is not protective; it increases risk by elevating social pressure, normalizing use, and lowering perceived consequences. So this option is not a protective factor.