February 2016 – A new Duke University study confirms that teens who see others drinking alcohol or using drugs are much more likely to use booze and drugs on the same day than if they had not witnessed their use.
Many parents might have verified that without the university having to study it, pointing out that it’s a principle straight out of the book of Proverbs – bad company corrupts.
“Past research has shown that children who grow up in families, schools, and neighborhoods where alcohol and drugs are frequently used are at risk for behavioral problems later in life,” said Candice Odgers, Duke associate professor.
“But,” Ogders added, “our findings demonstrate that these effects are immediate.” (Emphasis added.)
