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Teen Alcohol and Drug Use Rising

Jessica Beck

Story Created: Mar 2, 2010 at 1:46 PM PDT

Story Updated: Mar 2, 2010 at 8:09 PM PDT

After a decade in consistent declines in teen alcohol and drug abuse, a new national study released Tuesday points to an upward swing in usage. The study says teens are more likely to encounter drugs at parties and in other social situations.

The Partnership Attitude Tracking Study, released by the Partnership for a Drug-Free America and MetLife Foundation, looked at teens in grades 9-12.

Researchers found the the number of teens that had used alcohol in the past month increased by 11% (from 35% in 2008 to 39% in 2009). Marijuana use saw the largest annual increase, of 19% (from 32% in 2008 to 38% in 2009).

Underlying these increases, according to PATS researchers, are negative shifts in teen attitudes, particularly a growing belief in the benefits and acceptability of drug use and drinking.

KEY News spoke with several high school-aged students about this new trend. We'll have much more on what they had to say, tonight on KEY News at 5 and 6.
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