New study asks why youngsters in Spain take drugs

HAVING fun, experiencing new sensations and ‘being like everyone else’ are some of the reasons why young people take drugs, according to a new Spanish report.

People aged between 15 and 30 associate drug consumption with having fun, fitting in, feeling new things and creating their own sense of self, according to the investigation, called Social Perception of Drug Problems in Spain 2014, conducted by the FAD (Drug Help Foundation) thanks to the funds provided by the Spanish Government.

The study shows that almost 60 per cent of youths under 30 relate taking drugs to having a good time. Almost 35 per cent of the youngest interviewees (12 to 22 years old) and 30 per cent of those between 23 and 30 years old, attribute drug consumption to the wish to feel new sensations.

Amongst the adults (over 30 years old) interviewed, the reasons have to do more with dealing with problems related to personal, social or work matters.

The main negative consequence youths see resulting from drugs is addiction, with a 69 per cent of people between 23 and 30 pointing to it as the worst outcome.

Spanish youths reject drugs less than adults and believe more in their benefits. Many believe drugs can help give relief from problems and illnesses. In addition, the youngest claim drugs help them achieve a higher level of confidence, improve their personal relations and live a more intense life, as well as provide them with a more open mind.

Daily consumption is seen by young people as the most problematic behaviour, with 74 per cent of youths between 23 and 30 years old considering that it could lead to addiction or other related issues.