A Framework for Understanding the Alcohol and Substance Use among Girl Adolescents: Risks and Interventions

Abstract

Understanding the specific vulnerabilities and requirements of adolescent girls is essential for creating effective strategies to address alcohol and substance use within this group. This article describes the unique challenges girls face during adolescence concerning alcohol and substance use. This article delves into the various factors contributing to alcohol and substance use among teenage girls, including societal pressures, peer influence, and family dynamics and emphasizes the importance of understanding these complexities to develop effective intervention strategies tailored to the specific needs of adolescent girls. It discusses evidence-based approaches for prevention and intervention, highlighting the significance of education and support systems in mitigating alcohol and substance use risks. Additionally, the article addresses the role of parents, schools, healthcare providers, and community in supporting girls through this critical developmental stage. Considering the complexity of their experiences, it is clear that a comprehensive and multifaceted approach is needed to address alcohol and substance use among adolescent girls. There is a need for studies that aim to define and explain alcohol and substance use problems for adolescent girls. By acknowledging the unique experiences and challenges that girls encounter both worldwide and specifically in Turkey, healthcare providers can develop inclusive and gender-responsive strategies for addiction prevention and treatment.

Keywords

• adolescence
• substance use
• alcohol use
• intervention
• ergenlik
• madde kullanımı
• alkol kullanımı
• müdahale